Medical experts, officials advocate early detection, treatment of Lupus

PAMPORE: Sub District Hospital Pampore organized a special awareness programme on Friday to raise awareness about the significance of World Lupus Day.
The event was attended by esteemed medical professionals including Dr Asima Nazir, Block Medical Officer (BMO) Pampore, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Masoodi MD Physician (FRCR) Rheumatologist, alongside other doctors, health officials, paramedical staff and Asha workers.
World Lupus Day, commemorated annually on May 10, serves as a platform to shed light on individuals grappling with Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease. Lupus manifests in inflammation and discomfort affecting joints, muscles, skin, and various organs. Recognizing the significance of lifestyle and dietary choices in managing this condition remains paramount.
If someone experiences any of the mentioned signs and symptoms, they should consult a Rheumatologist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly impact their health, allowing them to lead a life close to normal.
The event underscored the importance of collective efforts in spreading awareness and providing support to those affected by Lupus, emphasizing the necessity for proactive measures in combating this challenging disease.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as Lupus, is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s own immune system erroneously attacks its own tissues. Its prevalence ranges from 3.2 to 40 cases per 100,000 individuals. This disorder predominantly affects women, with a female-to-male ratio of 9:1. While typically diagnosed between the ages of 15 to 45, it can occur from childhood to old age. SLE is characterized by the immune system attacking healthy tissues, impacting various organs such as the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and others, Dr Mukhtar Abbas Masoodi said.
Speaking to Kashmir Reader, Senior Consultant Rheumatologist Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Masoodi said, “We observe World Lupus Day every year. Today, we organized an awareness camp at Sub District Hospital Pampore, where our doctors from Pampore block and other blocks, paramedical staff, and ASHA workers came together to spread awareness about how to detect and manage Lupus. Our aim is to spread awareness through such initiatives.”
He said Lupus is an autoimmune disease, a rheumatological condition where patients experience sensitivity to sunlight, joint pain, fever, and various other symptoms.
“When patients come to us, they often mention developing allergies after exposure to sunlight. This disease is more prevalent in women, with a ratio of 9 females to 1 male. It is commonly diagnosed between the ages of 15 to 45. The prevalence rate in India is 3.2 per lakh, while in other countries, it’s found in 15 to 40 individuals per lakh,” he said.
Dr Mukhtar said it is predominantly diagnosed between the ages of 15 to 45, with approximately 80 to 90 percent of cases falling within this age range.
“On May 10, we aim to raise awareness among people that if they experience such symptoms, they should consult a rheumatologist for timely treatment. Untreated, this condition can potentially become life-threatening,” he said.
He explained: “Firstly, there should be awareness about rheumatology because there is a lack of awareness about it in Kashmir and the rest of the country. Often, patients with symptoms related to hands and joints visit Orthopedic specialists. If you ever experience such symptoms, it’s essential to consult a rheumatologist. What we have observed is that patients consult rheumatologists only when complications arise. Therefore, if anyone around you experiences such problems, immediately consult a rheumatologist or a physician who has knowledge about this disease to prevent further complications.”

BILAL HABIB