Whereas , lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes tissue and organ damage to any organ
in the body and, in some cases, death; and
Whereas , more than five million people worldwide suffer the devastating effects of this
disease and each year over a hundred thousand women, men and children are newly
diagnosed with lupus, the great majority of whom are women of childbearing age; and
Whereas , medical research efforts into lupus and the discovery of safer, more effective
treatments for lupus patients are under-funded in comparison with diseases of comparable
magnitude and severity; and
Whereas , many physicians worldwide are unaware of symptoms and health effects of lupus,
causing people with lupus to suffer for many years before they obtain a correct diagnosis
and medical treatment; and
Whereas , there is a deep, unmet need worldwide to educate and support individuals and
families affected by lupus; and
Whereas , there is an urgent need to increase awareness in communities worldwide of the
debilitating impact of lupus;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved that May 10, 2006 is hereby designated as World Lupus Day on which lupus organizations around the globe in calling for increases in public and private sector funding for medical research on lupus, targeted education programs for health professionals, patients and the public, and worldwide recognition of lupus as a significant public health issue.
Proclaimed This Day, May 10, 2006 |
