Celebrity Lupus Stories Raise Awareness of Chronic Autoimmune Disease
Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease, has affected several well-known personalities, raising awareness about its symptoms and impacts. The disease causes inflammation in various organs, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
Maurissa Tancharoen, co-creator of 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.', was diagnosed with lupus at a young age. She has experienced chronic severe flare-ups affecting her kidneys, lungs, and central nervous system. Nick Cannon, TV host and actor, was diagnosed in 2012 and emphasizes the importance of diet and support systems in managing the disease. Lady Gaga tested borderline positive for lupus and continues to raise awareness about the condition. Trick Daddy, rapper, prefers a 'ghetto diet' to manage his discoid lupus symptoms instead of Western medicine.
Kristen Johnston, actress, was diagnosed with lupus myelitis at age 46 and achieved remission six months later after chemotherapy and steroid treatment. Toni Braxton, singer, has openly struggled with lupus since 2011, having multiple hospital stays but never canceling a show due to symptoms. Shannon Boxx, Olympic soccer player, was diagnosed in 2007 and works with the Lupus Foundation of America to spread awareness. Seal, singer, has a specific type of lupus called discoid lupus erythematous and often channels his pain and suffering into his art. Selena Gomez, singer and actress, has lupus and has had to cancel tours and undergo chemotherapy due to flare-ups.
Lupus affects around 1 in 2,000 people in the United States, with 9 out of 10 diagnoses occurring in women. Early symptoms can occur in the teenage years and extend to adults in their 30s, with a wide range of symptoms including fatigue, fever, joint stiffness, skin rashes, thinking and memory problems, hair loss, and more. Celebrities sharing their experiences have helped combat stigma and discrimination associated with lupus, fostering greater understanding and support.
