History of the Lupus Foundation of America

The Lupus Foundation of America was founded in November of 1977 when the leaders of more than 20 independent local and statewide lupus organizations recognized the need to elevate the disease on the nation's health care agenda.  Over the ensuing four decades, the Lupus Foundation of America evolved from a loose federation to become the only national force dedicated exclusively to solving the cruel mystery of lupus.

The Foundation, in partnership with its nationwide network of local chapters, regional offices, and community-based support groups, conducts programs of research, education, and advocacy to improve the quality of life for people with lupus.  In 2016, the Foundation spearheaded efforts to create the World Lupus Federation, bringing together more than 200 lupus groups around the world to rally around a shared vision of a life free of lupus.

Since its inception, the Foundation has funded hundreds of researchers at medical institutions throughout the nation and around the world.  We focus on smart research that will generate faster progress and improve the quality of life for all people affected by lupus.  We challenge what isn’t working and support research that is most hopeful to uncover the causes of lupus, understand its progression, and accelerate the search for cures.

The Lupus Foundation of America is the driving force behind efforts to increase public and private investment in lupus research, develop safer and more targeted therapies, and improve public, patient and professional awareness and understanding of the disease and its health effects.  

Revised 2018-November-12