Lupus awareness campaign launched

Lupus is a deadly immune disease that attacks the healthy cells and tissues in the body. Sadly, lupus tends to be more common in women especially in racial minorities. Worse is the overall lack of attention to the disease despite it affecting one of every 200 people in the U.S.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Ad Council Launch recently launched a national lupus awareness campaign. “America's Next Top Model” runner-up and lupus spokeswoman Mercedes Yvette has joined the vital campaign:

"Despite its prevalence in the United States, lupus is rarely discussed and often misunderstood among women in our country," said Dr. Wanda K. Jones, deputy assistant secretary for women's health at HHS...

Without intervention, lupus can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, disability, and in many cases, death. The disease can have a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, hair loss, painful or swollen joints, fever, skin rashes and kidney problems. However, in the majority of people who are living with lupus, early and effective treatment can minimize symptoms, reduce inflammation and pain, help maintain normal functions and prevent the development of serious complications.

"I took my symptoms seriously and was able to get diagnosed and start treatment early. As a result, I've been able to lead a healthy life," explains Yvette, a Lupus Foundation of America spokesperson.

Several PSAs started being run this month both in English and Spanish. Here is an example of the latter:

Online Sources- YouTube, Ad Council, WebMD, National Institutes of Health