
Initial Finding on Lupus and COVID-19 Now Available
Despite increased healthcare system demands and stretched resources, the COVID-19 Global Rheumatology Alliance has successfully developed a global registry to capture and share key medical findings relevant to people with rheumatic disease who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. Created in less than one week, the new system enables healthcare providers around the world to access online portals and share case reports that shed light on how people with diseases like lupus are responding to the novel coronavirus, helping to answer questions about susceptibility and treatment.
As of April 1, 2020, 110 individuals with rheumatic disease who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 are included from six continents: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. So far, 17% of those reported cases represent people with lupus. Of the entire registry, the most common COVID-19 symptoms reported at the onset of the disease are:
- Fever (79%)
- Cough (77%)
- Shortness of breath (50%)
- Muscle pain (45%)
- Sore throat (37%)
The five most common co-occurring illness according to the current data are:
- High blood pressure (28%)
- Lung disease (20%)
- Heart disease (11%)
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 and above (8%)
- Diabetes (8%)
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Lupus Awareness Month
May is Lupus Awareness Month and we encourage you to participate from the comfort of your home. There are many opportunities to take part in advocating, educating, and spreading hope to all those who are affected by lupus.
- May 2, 2020 - Virtual support group with guest speaker, Dr. Pegram, Rheumatologist.
- May 5, 2020- Giving Tuesday. Start a fundraiser and become a lupus partner to raise funds for lupus research, education, support, and advocacy.
- May 9, 2020 - Virtual Support group. The first group is at 11:00 a.m. and the second group starts at 1:00 p.m. Join one or both!
- May 10, 2020 - Observe World Lupus Day by wearing purple, posting pictures on social media, and telling your story of lupus.
- May 12, 2020- Rally for Lupus with a Patient Story, Systemic Lupus, and Managing Your Lupus.
- May 15, 2020 - Put On Purple Day! Get your t-shirt, purple light bulb, and yard sign for POP day! #Lights4Lupus
- May 19, 2020 - Lupus and the Skin: A Helpful Guide Teleconference
You can find more information on how to participate in Lupus Awareness Month activities by visiting the dedicated webpage. We encourage everyone to learn more about lupus, educate someone on lupus, and share your stories on social media. Don't forget to tag us @LupusLoneStar #LupusLoneStar #Lights4Lupus #PutOnPurple
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Virtual Educational Programs
Do you or someone you love have lupus? Join one or more of these FREE programs: teleconference, support group, or Rally for Lupus. You will learn directly from lupus experts and will have ample time to submit questions ahead of each program.
Register for the program you would like to participate.
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