It is estimated that lupus occurs 10 times more often in women than in men, however men too have the potential of getting lupus.
Scientists believe that a) the higher levels of oestrogen in women may be responsible for the severity of the disease or is a possible catalyst for developing the disease itself and b) the presence of androgens may offer some protection so low levels of androgen in men may be connected to the development of the disease in males.
Women are thought to respond more aggressively to self-antigens as their immune system is stronger and more responsive than that of men. This makes them more vulnerable to autoimmune rheumatic diseases.