Lupus is a health problem in which the body attacks its own tissues and organs. It can cause many other health problems, such as trouble breathing, skin problems, arthritis, kidney problems, and headaches. No one knows for sure what causes lupus. Doctors think that lupus may be genetic. It is more common in African American women and other minorities than in White women. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that between 1979 and 1998, 70% more African American women (between 45 and 65 years old) died from Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Publications

1. Diagnosis: The Eleven Criteria Used for the Diagnosis of Lupus (Copyright © LFA) - Currently, there is no single laboratory test that can determine whether a person has lupus or not. To assist the physician in the diagnosis of lupus, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) issued a list of 11 symptoms or signs that help distinguish lupus from other diseases.

2. LUPUS: Basics For Better Living (Copyright © LFA) - Although there is no "cure" for lupus, you can make lifestyle adjustments that help fight the disease and give you an improved sense of well-being. Many of these don't require spending money or seeing a health care provider. This pamphlet offers you ways to do things to help yourself.

3. Pregnancy and Lupus (Copyright © LFA) - This fact sheet answers many questions a woman with lupus might be concerned about if she is pregnant or planning to get pregnant.

4. Questions and Answers About Arthritis and Rheumatic Disease - This fact sheet answers basic questions about arthritis and rheumatic diseases.

5. The Many Shades of Lupus: Information for Multicultural Communities - This publication contains information on how to find out if you have lupus, a symptom checklist, as well as strategies to cope with the stress and fatigue associate with lupus.

6. Understanding Autoimmune Diseases - This publication offers information on the immune system, how autoimmune diseases affect it, who are most affected by autoimmune diseases, possible causes and available treatment options.

7. Understanding Lupus (Copyright © BWH) - This on-line publication contains information on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in African-American Women, signs and symptoms, medical evaluation and diagnosis, and treatment.

Organizations

1. American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association, Inc.

2. Black Women's Health Online

3. Lupus Foundation of America, Inc.

4. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse, NIAMS, NIH, HHS

5. Office on Women's Health, HHS