WHEREAS, Systematic lupus erythematosus, commonly known as lupus, is a chronic, complex, and often life-threatening autoimmune disease; and

WHEREAS, Researchers estimate that five million people have been diagnosed with lupus or related diseases throughout the world, and approximately 100,000 more are diagnosed every year; and

WHEREAS, Recent studies funded by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that lupus may be twice as common as previously believed, afflicting 128.7 out of every 100,000 women; and

WHEREAS, Lupus strikes women primarily when they are 15 to 44 years of age, inclusive, and it affects all aspects of their lives; and

WHEREAS, Lupus disproportionately affects people of color; and

WHEREAS, Lupus impacts more than just the life of the patient; it affects the patient’s family, friends, coworkers, employers, and community; and

WHEREAS, Lupus Foundation of Northern California in San Jose, Lupus Foundation of Southern California in San Diego, and Lupus LA in Los Angeles were founded as 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to alleviate suffering for lupus patients through patient and family services, achieve early detection of undiagnosed cases through awareness promotion, and achieve the eradication of lupus by supporting lupus research; and

WHEREAS, Early diagnosis and proper treatments are critical to the improvement of the quality of life and survival rate of lupus sufferers; and

WHEREAS, Increased public awareness, education, and research are key to winning the battle against lupus; now, therefore, be it