Probability of Developing Lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) affects an estimated 204,000 Americans, with a prevalence of roughly 72 per 100,000 population. The disease disproportionately affects women, who account for about 90% of cases, typically diagnosed between ages 15 and 44.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue, potentially affecting the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, and lungs. Risk factors include female sex, African American descent (3-4 times more common than in White women), Hispanic and Asian descent, family history, and certain environmental triggers including UV light exposure, infections, and certain medications.

There is no cure for lupus, but treatments have improved significantly. The 10-year survival rate has improved from approximately 50% in the 1950s to over 90% today. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory drugs, antimalarials (hydroxychloroquine), immunosuppressants, and biologics (belimumab). Kidney involvement (lupus nephritis) remains the most serious complication, occurring in about 40% of patients.