World Lupus Day is aligned with the global public health agenda. One of the foremost objective of the day is spreading information aimed to educate the masses regarding lupus. Even though hundred thousands of people suffer from this condition around the globe, there is limited knowledge of what it is. Awareness is important in this scenario.
This article is going to specify the meaning of lupus, it’s significance on the World Lupus Day as well as detail what are the various steps done in order to make a difference towards it. Let us understand how this day has been instrumental in providing encouragement to people who are suffering from lupus.
What Is Lupus?
Moreover, it is important to recognize that lupus is a chronic disease which is why is it referred to as long-term autoimmune disease. It is characterized as the case where the immune system will attack the body for trying to heal by causing damage to skin, blood cells, blood vessels and even tissues.
This condition causes extreme pain, irreversible weariness and might cause the person to be unable to go to work leading to a reduction in living standards.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the most common type of lupus. Other types only impact the skin or specific organs.
Why Do We Observe World Lupus Day?
This day helps build awareness about the illness. There are many individuals suffering from lupus who feel that people don’t understand them. While symptoms aren’t obvious to other people, they are very real for the patients.
This helps to highlight their issues at the global level. It also calls for more research, treatment, and assistance.
When awareness is created, perceptions are changed. There are better healthcare policies, funding, and resources allocated as a result.
History of World Lupus Day
2004 is the year when the day was first celebrated. This campaign was initiated by The Lupus Foundation Of America and a few other organizations which aimed to make everyone aware.
A hundred countries have joined this movement ever since. Every year, there are events, campaigns, and fundraisers that help spread the word.
Signs and Symptoms of Lupus
Recognizing the signs of a condition is the first step of awareness. Common symptoms of lupus include the following:
- Pain and inflammation in the joints
- Dehabilitation fatigue
- Rashes on the skin, primarily the face
- Sunlight sensitivity
- Alopecia
- Spontaneous periods of fever
These symptoms aren’t set in stone. They tend to differm temporally fluctuate, making a diagnosis rather tricky.
How to Participate in World Lupus Day
Each individual can join in for World Lupus Day, May 10th. These are simple things any of us can do to promote awareness of the condition:
- Wear purple in adornment of the event
- Post lupus facts on any social media platform
- Participate in online meetings or virtual walks
- Fund foundations that research lupus and other such diseases
- Hear out a lupus patient and learn what living with the condition is like
Actions, no matter how small, can help a great deal.
Withstanding Living with Lupus: The Resilience and Endurance
As said before, life is not easy with issues such as lupus. There are ups and downs and lacks in motivation The thing is, many people continue to work or study to lead fulfilling lives.
Active support networks change the game. This means family, friends, physicians, and their societies can provide support and motivation.
World Lupus Day helps give these voices recognition. It tells us that people suffering with lupus are strong, courageous, and never alone.
What is the Symbol of Lupas Awareness?
The official color of lupus awareness is purple. Purple ribbons and clothes are worn by many on World Lupus Day.
To those battling with lupus, purple represents courage, strength, hope, and support.
Final Thoughts
World Lupus Day is more than a health event. It is a worldwide movement that seeks action, awareness, and compassion of lupus.
Taking the first step includes learning about the disease. The second step is sharing what one learned. This day let’s use our voices to unite with the millions suffering from lupus and be their point of support and recognition.
