#CulturePH - Shining a Light on Filipinos Living with Lupus
Lupus, an autoimmune disease, affects millions globally, with a significant impact on women. In the Philippines, this chronic condition presents daily challenges for 30 to 50 out of every 100,000 people. Fortunately, recent healthcare advancements offer hope for better outcomes for those living with lupus.
Dr. Juan Javier Lichauco, past president of the Philippine Rheumatology Association (PRA), emphasizes the importance of awareness: “Lupus often masquerades as other illnesses. By bringing it into the light, we ensure Filipinos living with its daily struggles receive the early attention and treatment they deserve.”
Understanding Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the most common form of lupus, accounting for about 70% of all cases. This lifelong autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system attacks healthy tissue, affecting the skin, joints, and vital organs. Symptoms vary but commonly include skin rashes, joint pain, and fatigue. The emotional toll is equally heavy, with many patients experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, or depression.
Ms. Manilyn Mana-ay Robles, President of the Lupus Foundation of the Philippines, shares, “Lupus affects the way you work, study, and enjoy time with your family. There’s fatigue, pain, and fear because you know something inside your body is not working properly.”
The Struggles Behind the Symptoms
Diagnosing lupus is complex due to its broad and overlapping symptoms. Dr. Auxencio Lorenz Lucero Jr., PRA president, explains, “Diagnosis is based on a combination of symptoms and lab tests. If the kidneys are involved, a biopsy may be needed.” He also notes that gender plays a role in visibility: “More women are affected, and women are more expressive about their pain. Many men with lupus stay silent, thinking it’s just stress, leading to delayed diagnosis.”
Progress Through Collaboration and Innovation
Dr. Cyril Joseph Tolosa, Medical Affairs Director of AstraZeneca Philippines, highlights the progress in lupus care: “Today, lupus is no longer a death sentence. With proper care, patients can live full, productive lives. Our goal is remission, and eventually, a cure.” He stresses the importance of collaboration among clinicians, patients, and advocates to close the diagnosis gap and ensure equitable access to care.
United Voices of Advocacy
Advocacy groups play a crucial role in supporting lupus patients. Ms. Melanie Cuevas, board member of Hope for Lupus, emphasizes the need for government support: “We are hopeful that these conversations will help push for a national lupus bill. Patients need access to medicines, disability benefits, and data tracking.”
Robelle Tanangunan, LUISA researcher and advocate, adds, “This disease tests your resilience—but we’re here to tell you: you are not alone. There is community, there is care, and there is hope.”
Making Lupus Visible Together
Living with lupus is challenging, but no Filipino patient should face it alone. Stronger partnerships among doctors, patient advocates, and health leaders are driving momentum toward better care, deeper understanding, and lasting change. Dr. Cyril Tolosa underscores the urgency: “This World Lupus Day and beyond, let’s make lupus visible. By raising awareness and pushing for better care, we can help prevent irreversible damage and support patients in living healthier, more fulfilling lives.”
Together, we can turn visibility into action—and action into hope.
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