May 10 is World Lupus Day and it was created to help the world know that this seemingly random grabbag of symptoms is a debilitating, chronic autoimmune disease that is suffered by over 5 million people worldwide, with 1.5 million of them living in the United States alone.
Can you imagine being bothered by sunlight, covered in a rash, suffering from fatigue, having mouth sores, and dealing with kidney and joint problems, as well as experiencing substantial hair loss and swelling of the lymph nodes? It sounds terrible, right? Unfortunately, this is what those who suffer from the symptoms of Lupus face every single day.
World Lupus Day
Lupus affects all nationalities, races, genders, ages, and ethnicities. It is a chronic disease that causes damage to any part of the body. It causes the immune system to become overactive, thereby creating antibodies that attack healthy tissue causing pain, inflammation, and damage in a part of the body.
Lupus is a very fatal illness but unfortunately, no cure has been found for this disease. It is quite disheartening that many people are unaware of this condition, often mistaking it for arthritis which is a much less severe disease. Most people only become familiar with lupus after they or someone they know has been diagnosed with it. This is the problem World Lupus Day was created to combat; hence this is the right time to learn more about this disease and share it with others in honor of the day.
History of World Lupus Day
World Lupus Day was created by Lupus Canada in 2004 to promote understanding and awareness of this lesser-known disease that can have severe impacts on those affected and their families. The event was organized by lupus organizations from thirteen different countries, who urged their respective governments to increase funding for research, enhance patient services, collect more epidemiological data, and raise awareness about the condition. Throughout the years, the day has gained recognition in an increasing number of countries across various continents, including Africa, Asia, Australia, North and South America, and Europe.
How to Participate in World Lupus Day
World Lupus Day is a very important day that is dedicated to a serious cause, but it can also be Enjoyable. So, how can you celebrate or participate in it? You can participate in this event by;
- Wearing the color purple
- Learning more about Lupus
- Donating to a Lupus charity
- Helping a person who has Lupus
- Joining a World Lupus Day activity
- Signing a Lupus awareness pledge
These are the ways you can participate in the event.
Frequently Asked Questions on World Lupus Day
What does World Lupus Day Mean?
World Lupus Day is an annual event that brings together lupus organizations and people affected by the disease from all over the world. This day aims to raise awareness and resources to support efforts to end the suffering caused by this debilitating and potentially life-threatening autoimmune disease.
What is the color for World Lupus Day?
Lupus Day is connected with the color purple. Therefore, people can show support by wearing purple clothes or buying wristbands.
Is Lupus a Disease?
Lupus is a health condition that happens when the body’s immune system attacks its tissue and organs.
