Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th – October 15th)
THE IMPORTANCE OF ACTING EARLY WHEN LIVING WITH LUPUS
Recognizing the Disproportionate Impacts of Lupus on Hispanic and Latinx Communities
Women of color are disproportionately affected by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common form of lupus. SLE is a chronic, inflammatory disease that can result in permanent damage to major organs.[1] Notably, it is estimated that 21 percent of those living with lupus in the U.S. are Hispanic.[2] Patients of color, including Hispanic people living with SLE, also have significantly higher rates of lupus nephritis (LN), a potentially life-threatening complication of lupus, compared to White patients.2
Hispanic and Latinx individuals may also face distinct challenges that can impact access to healthcare that may make managing the disease even more difficult, such as language barriers.[3],[4]
Fortunately, early intervention with the use of FDA-approved medications can help reduce the risk of organ damage progression.[5]
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, on Tuesday, September 24, Guillermo Valenzuela, M.D. is available to discuss the effect of lupus on the Hispanic and Latinx communities. Dr. Valenzuela, who is the Medical Director of the Internal Rheumatology and Immunology Specialists medical center, can also discuss the unique challenges these communities face and the importance of early disease intervention.
Interview is courtesy: GSK
#hispanicheritagemonth #actingearly #livingwithlupus #lupus
