Be aware and improve your quality of life

Lupus and other related autoimmune diseases are the third highest cause of ill health in the community. Despite this, people in the community have very limited knowledge of these conditions.

This month is Lupus Awareness Month and staff at John Hunter Hospital’s Autoimmune Resource Centre are encouraging the community to learn more about lupus.

Director of Immunology for Hunter Area Pathology Service (HAPS) Associate Professor Glenn Reeves said that lupus is a condition which causes inflammation in the small blood vessels in the connective tissues. This inflammation may cause abnormalities in vital organs including the heart, brain, lungs, kidneys and skin.

"The symptoms of lupus are often non-specific which can make it difficult to diagnose but can include flu-like symptoms such as fatigue and a general lack of energy, muscle and joint pain," Dr Reeves said.

"Because symptoms are subtle and non-specific, particularly in its early stages, it is often dismissed as a psychosomatic problem, delaying diagnosis. However, it can lead to death as it significantly increases the risk of developing other serious diseases such as heart disease.

Dr Reeves said that it is important that people are aware of lupus and avenues available for people with the disease to gain support in managing the disease.

"Our experience is that people who have access to accurate information about living with lupus generally enjoy improved quality of life," Dr Reeves said.

Dr Reeves said there were several Hunter services people living with lupus could access for support.

"The Autoimmune Resource and Research Centre (ARRC), based at John Hunter Hospital works together with the Scleroderma/Lupus Support Society to support people in managing their illness and cope with it in a positive way," Dr Reeves said.

"The ARRC is also leading a number of research initiatives looking at the causes, diagnosis and optimal management of lupus and related autoimmune syndromes.

To help raise awareness of lupus and to support those currently suffering from the disease, the ARRC in conjunction with Scleroderma/Lupus Support Society is holding a Lupus Awareness Seminar. The Seminar will be held at Wests Mayfield on Wednesday 15 October 2008 from 6pm to 8.30pm. Members of the public are asked to call the Autoimmune Centre on 4921 4095 to register their attendance.