About

LUPUS is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body (skin, joints, and/or organs inside the body). Signs and symptoms of lupus include extreme fatigue, aching joints, skin rashes, hair loss, and pain.

DID YOU KNOW?
•     An estimated 1.5 million Americans have lupus.
•     Lupus develops most often between the ages 15-44.
•     Ninety percent of the people with lupus are female. However, men, children and teenagers develop lupus, too.
•     Lupus occurs two or three times more frequently among African Americans, Asians, Hispanics, Latinos, and Native Americans than among Caucasians.
•     Causes of lupus are unknown; scientists believe that hormones, genetics, and the environment are involved.
•     Because symptoms vary from person to person, can come and go over time, and mimic other illnesses, lupus can be difficult to diagnose – and there is no definitive test for lupus.
•     For most people with lupus, early diagnosis and proper treatment can minimize symptoms, reduce inflammation and pain, and stop the development of serious organ damage.
•     Health effects of lupus include heart attacks, strokes, seizures, kidney failure, and miscarriages. While there is not yet a cure for the disease, an array of drug therapies are available – and that has increased the potential for effective management of lupus and good outcomes.

THE LUPUS SOCIETY OF ILLINOIS PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

•     Patient education programs and materials
•     Referrals to physicians, community services, resources, and assistance
•     Health educators /navigators available to answer questions and provide medically sound information about lupus
•     Information and updates from local and international lupus medical experts
•     Chapter events and support groups
•     Newsletters and alerts
•     Living with Lupus grant provides financial assistance for a lupus-related expense to qualifying applicants

Our programs and services are accessible via phone, online, and in-person.

PROGRAMS & SERVICES

We understand that lupus can cause confusion and challenges—often unexpectedly.  We are here to provide the programs and services you need to live well with this often devastating disease.  

RESEARCH

Research is critical to achieving our mission in Illinois.  The Lupus Society of Illinois funds important lupus research annually—typically research conducted in Illinois.  We can also help answer any questions you may have about participating in clinical trials or other research opportunities.

ADVOCACY & AWARENESS

Illinois advocacy efforts target state lawmakers as we conduct outreach efforts to increase public understanding of lupus and build support for people affected by the disease.