Hey everyone, and welcome to the Lupus Foundation of America’s (LFA) blog! We are very excited to dip our toes into the social networking pool, by finding new ways to engage people who have an interest in the LFA. At the same time, we can introduce new people to us.
One great – not to mention important -- LFA campaign is connecting with Capitol Hill and urging Members of Congress to become cosponsors of the Lupus Research, Education, Awareness, Communication, and Healthcare (REACH) Amendments for 2007. This bill has been introduced in the Senate by Senator Patty Murray (WA) – S. 1359; and it has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Representative Kendrick Meek (FL) -- H.R. 1192.
As most of you reading this either have lupus, or know someone who has lupus, you know that lupus is a widespread, chronic, and life-threatening autoimmune disease that can damage virtually any organ system in the body. Approximately 1.5 to 2 million Americans have lupus. Of particular concern is the unexplained prevalence of lupus among women and minority populations -- the disease affects nine times more women than men, and it is two to three times more common among African Americans, Latinos, Asians, and Native Americans. Unbelievably, no new drug has been approved by the FDA to treat lupus in more than 40 years!
S. 1359/H.R. 1192 will help our nation make significant strides toward bridging the gaps in lupus research, education, and awareness. Through the comprehensive approach promoted by the Lupus REACH Amendments, health professionals and researchers will be able to significantly enhance the lives of those affected by this disease. We depend on people like you to contact your Members of Congress and to spread the word about the Lupus REACH Amendments.
No comments:
Post a Comment