As a follow-up to the recent lupus awareness session led by Dr. Altenor, we are pleased to share information on how you can continue supporting this important cause through membership in the St. Lucia Arthritis & Lupus Association (SLALA).
SLALA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by arthritis, lupus, and related conditions. By becoming a member, you’ll be contributing to a meaningful mission while gaining access to a range of exclusive benefits.
To learn more about the association, membership details, and available benefits, please refer to the attached document. It includes the official membership form and all relevant information.
If you have any questions or would like to register, you may contact SLALA directly:
- 📧 Email: [email protected]
- 📞 Phone: (758) 486-7000
- 📍 Location: Ground Floor, CARILEC Building, Sans Souci
- 🕘 Opening Hours: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
We encourage you to consider joining and to share this opportunity with others who may benefit.
Key Takeaways from the LUPUS Awareness Session
1. Types of Lupus:
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) – A chronic autoimmune condition affecting multiple organs and tissues.
- Cutaneous Lupus – Primarily affects the skin, causing rashes and lesions.
- Neonatal Lupus – A rare condition in newborns, often passed through maternal antibodies.
- Drug-Induced - caused by certain medications, which once discontinued symptoms go away.
- Lupus is considered a chronic, rheumatic, autoimmune disease
2. Contributing Causes:
- Triggered by environmental and biological factors:
- Sunlight exposure
- Infections
- Hormonal influences (more prevalent in women)
- Psychological and physical stress
3. Common Symptoms:
- Hair loss (including patchy baldness)
- Mouth sores
- Rashes – especially the “butterfly rash” across the cheeks and nose
- Joint pain, chest discomfort, and swelling in the feet
- Rashes on the neck, arms, and legs
- Neurological symptoms – including seizures and inflammation of the brain (psychosis)
- Low blood count, fatigue, and recurring fevers
4. Health Complications:
- Potential kidney damage due to inflammation (most common complication)
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease (heart attacks etc.)
- Increased risk of developing hypertension and diabetes (this often is due to prolonged use of medications like steroids)
5. Management and Lifestyle Strategies:
- Anti-inflammatory diet: Fruits, vegetables, hydration, whole grains, non-processed foods
- Avoidance of certain foods like added sugars and salts, gluten, dairy (use calcium-rich alternatives);
- Exercise: Moderate, joint-friendly activity; 30 minutes 5 days a week
- Sun-protection: use of sunscreen and covering up
- Stress management
- Prioritizing sleep
- Supplements: Vitamin D3, Omega 3, B vitamins, Magnesium
- Oral care: having dental cleanings every 6 months
- Good hygiene practices to prevent infection and flares
6. Supporting Someone with Lupus:
- Listen with empathy – Validate their experiences without minimizing their pain or symptoms.
- Be patient – Fatigue and flare-ups can be unpredictable; flexibility is key.
- Offer practical help – Whether it’s running errands or attending appointments, small acts go a long way.
- Learn about the disease – Understanding lupus shows you care and helps avoid harmful assumptions.
- Encourage healthy habits – Gently support stress reduction, good nutrition, and rest.
- Respect their pace – Social events or obligations might be too draining; allow them space without guilt.
