Accra: Ghana will join the rest of the world to observe the annual World Lupus Day on May 10, 2025. At least five million people worldwide have lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that can damage any organ or tissue from the skin or joints to the heart or kidneys.
According to Ghana News Agency, a statement issued in Accra and signed by Ms Emma Danso, Executive Director of Oyemam Autoimmune Foundation, said now in its 22nd year, World Lupus Day would focus on the need for heightened public awareness of lupus and improved patient healthcare services. It said it would also increase research into the causes of and desperately needed treatments for lupus, enhanced physician diagnosis of lupus, and better epidemiological data on lupus globally.
The statement said lupus affected more than just the person with the disease and also impacted their family, friends, and work colleagues. ‘Still, it is widely under-recognized as a global health problem by the public, health professionals, and governments, driving the need for greater awareness,’ it added.
The statement said early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of lupus help to slow the debilitating effects of the disease. However, lupus is often difficult to diagnose because symptoms frequently mimic common illnesses and increasing awareness of lupus will save lives.
World Lupus Day was first observed in 2004, and several special events were held to highlight its importance. Most significantly was the issuing of the inaugural World Lupus Day Proclamation, recognizing this historic day and demonstrating concern for the needs of millions of individuals globally. Ghana ratified the World Lupus proclamation in 2017.
It urged the public to join the international effort to increase awareness and understanding of lupus by promoting the annual World Lupus Day observation.