Risk Factors for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.
It is possible to develop lupus with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing lupus. There is no way to reduce your risk.
Lupus occurs primarily in women of childbearing age. It affects nonwhite women more frequently than white women.
The major risk factors are:
Ninety percent of people with lupus are women.
Lupus first occurs most often in the late teens to early 30s.
People who are black, Native American, Asian, or Hispanic are at greater risk than those who are white.
References:
Fauci A. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 1998.
Ferri F, ed. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2010. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier; 2009.
Firestein G, Kelley W. Kelley’s Textbook of Rheumatology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2008.
Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Internal Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2008.
Habif T. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, LA: Mosby; 2004.
Last reviewed September 2010 by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.