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Jalandhar, May 22, 2026: India is witnessing a growing burden of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease that can silently damage multiple organs if left undiagnosed or untreated. According to estimates, nearly 1 in 1,000 Indians are affected by lupus annually. Despite increasing cases, the country continues to face major challenges related to awareness, timely diagnosis, specialist access, and treatment affordability.
“Stigma associated with chronic illnesses, coupled with low awareness among both the public and healthcare providers, often leads to delays in seeking medical help,” says Dr Ankush P M, MD Internal Medicine and DM Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Fortis Hospital Jalandhar.
Understanding Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue and organs. The inflammation caused by this abnormal immune response can affect many parts of the body including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the most common type of lupus, and the severity of SLE can be from mild to life-threatening depending on how severely the organs are inflamed.
Since the symptoms of lupus varies greatly among individuals due to the similarity in symptoms of many other diseases, it may take years before an individual is diagnosed increasing risk of developing irreversible damage to affected organs.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Due to its complexity, the root cause of Lupus is still unknown, however experts believe there are several contributing factors such as a combination of genetics, hormones, environment that may cause the disease. Factors include family history with auto-immune disease, hormonal changes, smoking and chronic stress. “The disease is more common in females aged 15-45 than males and children but can develop in either. Since the disease goes unnoticed in the early stages, and patients wait long time to reach actual diagnosis, it can lead to severe health complications such as kidney damage, major organ failure, blood clots, and pregnancy complications,” says Dr Ankush P M, MD Internal Medicine and DM Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Fortis Hospital Jalandhar.
Symptoms Often Ignored
The symptoms can develop slowly and often change throughout time with “flare-ups.” Some of the most common symptoms which are frequently ignored are fatigue, unexplained weakness, joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Loss of hair, mouth ulcers, sensitivity to the sun, swelling around the eyes/legs, chest pain, difficulty breathing, headaches and poor concentration are other symptoms one should look out for.
“Early diagnosis is crucial since it allows to control inflammation before serious complications develop. With the right treatment and regular monitoring, most lupus patients can lead active and productive lives,” says Dr Ankush P M, MD Internal Medicine and DM Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Fortis Hospital Jalandhar.
Managing Lupus Through Lifestyle Changes
Making healthy lifestyle choices can decrease the frequency of flare-ups and enhance overall quality of life. According to medical professionals, patients with lupus should limit their exposure to sunlight, stop smoking, keep their stress levels low, stay active, have a balanced diet, and a regular sleep routine, drink enough fluids, and take their medications consistently.
Routine health checkups, prompt infectious disease management, and emotional support are all necessary factors to consider in the long-term management of lupus.
The better the awareness the easier the diagnosis.
