Lupus and African-Americans

When people think of diseases that affect the African-American community, they very often think of sickle cell anemia. After a little more thought, they might think of HIV, substance addiction, diabetes or heart disease.

They hardly ever think of lupus.

This lack of information could prove to be very serious, or even fatal, for the millions of African-Americans at risk for developing lupus. As many as 1 in 250 African-American women will develop lupus in their lifetimes, as opposed to 1 in 400 Hispanic women and 1 in 600 Caucasian women. (9 out of 10 lupies are women, so most of the research reflects this gender bias.)

There is a wide disparity in healthcare between White Americans and minority Americans. According to the Office of Minority Health, the four main reasons for this healthcare gap are the limited data and research done with minority groups, the difficulties in spanning cultural barriers, limited access to health care (due to lack of funds, transportation, providers, etc.), and an under-representation of minorities in the healthcare profession.

Put another way, the healthcare disparity affects the lives of African-Americans to the point that the life expectancy of a Black newborn is 71.8 years. The life expectancy of a White newborn is 77.4 years. (Granted, there are other factors besides healthcare, but it plays a significant role.)

In September of 2000, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health received a $600,000 Federal grant to study lupus in African-American women. According to the research, some physicians and scientists feel that there may be a connection between the prevalence of lupus in women in urban African-American communities and residential or occupational exposure to petroleum distillates. This grant will also be used to help reduce the disparities in diagnosis, treatment and care that unfortunately occur.

One of the best weapons that we have to combat lupus is awareness. If people become more aware of the prevalence of lupus in African-Americans, the early signs and symptoms might not go unnoticed or ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment remain our best weapons in battling lupus. If you or anyone you know is experiencing any of the following symptoms, please see your healthcare provider immediately:

• Fever
• Unexplained weight loss
• Unusual hair loss
• Rashes, especially on the face, above the eyes and across the nose on both cheeks
• Joint pain and/or stiffness
• Frequent infections/illnesses
• Anemia
• Severe fatigue
• Chest pains or pressure, especially with breathing
• Sensitivity to the sun or fluorescent lighting
• Ulcers in the mouth or nose

Education, information and awareness are crucial if we are to get testing and treatment for those most at risk for developing lupus. Every time that an African-American reads or hears about lupus and says, "Hey! That sounds like me!" and actively seeks an evaluation of suspicious symptoms, it is a victory.

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