Together, these data can be used as the starting point for genetic analysis to identify possible lupus genes. Ultimately the Repository will contain data on fully characterized lupus families and be available to other researchers. No site chosen. No participants called for. Autoimmune diseases are a significant source of chronic illnesses.
AID costs billions annually in health care expenses and lost productivity.
Women are disproportionately affected. Many of these diseases are chronic and attack during the most productive years of life, affecting not only women, but also their children. Most of these diseases increase in frequency after puberty and pregnancy may exacerbate or ameliorate the course of some of these diseases, suggesting that sex hormones may be involved. No site chosen. No participants called for.