Lupus or SLE (Systemic lupus erythematosus) is a chronic, under-diagnosed, hard-to-treat, auto-imune disease that can damage any part of the body. 

Medical science has not yet developed a method for curing Lupus, and much more research is required. Medications for treating the symptoms of Lupus include anti-inflammatories, corticosteroids and anti-malarials (developed in the 50's).








What causes Lupus is poorly understood, but research indicates a genetic component, that has yet to be identified. With SLE, the immune system attacks the body’s cells and tissue, resulting in inflammation and tissue damage.

SLE most often harms the heart, joints, skin, lungs, liver,blood vessels, nervous system and kidneys. The course of the disease is unpredictable, with periods of illness (called flares) alternating with remissions. To learn more about Lupus and support local organizations, read more at Lupus Canada and the Lupus Foundation of America.