Lupus is an autoimmune disease — meaning the body’s own immune system doesn’t function properly and attacks you by mistake — and affects multiple organs throughout the body. In healthy individuals, the body produces proteins called antibodies to fight off foreign invaders such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. But in people with lupus, antibodies can’t distinguish between foreign invaders and the body’s own cells and tissues. These autoantibodies attack cells and tissues, causing inflammation, which can lead to arthritis, lupus rash, kidney damage, and other symptoms and health problems.
Here are some other important facts to know: - Lupus is diagnosed in about 16,000 people each year. Overall, an estimated 322,000 to 1.5 million Americans have the disease. (3)
- Lupus is NOT contagious.
- Lupus is not necessarily life threatening when treated appropriately.
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