What is lupus?
The basics in plain language: what lupus is, who it affects, and why it is so often missed.
ReadResource centre
Everything in one place
The LFA Lupus Resource Centre brings together everything we publish for patients, families and health professionals. Search it, or filter by who it is for.
Causes and risk factors
Genetics, hormones and environmental factors, and why nothing you did caused your lupus.
ReadSymptom reflection tool
Organise what you have been experiencing so you can describe it clearly to a clinician. Not a diagnostic test.
Open the toolGetting a diagnosis
The five steps of the diagnostic journey, why it takes time, and what to ask along the way.
ReadTreatment and management
What treatment usually involves, what to ask, and what to do when cost or distance gets in the way.
ReadFrequently asked questions
Heredity, testing, treatments, diet, pregnancy, contagion and work, answered in one place.
ReadJust diagnosed? Start here
Five practical first steps after a lupus diagnosis, in the order that usually helps most.
Open the guideLiving well with lupus
Sun protection, pacing energy, recognising early warning signs and staying on treatment.
ReadLupus and mental health
Why care that stops at medication is incomplete, and what helps.
ReadLupus and work
Navigating disclosure, fatigue and adjustments, plus guidance for employers.
ReadWomen, pregnancy and motherhood
Why lupus affects women disproportionately, and what planning a pregnancy involves.
ReadChildren and young people
Lupus in childhood and adolescence, and how schools and families can help.
ReadCaregiver wellbeing
Support for the people supporting someone with lupus, including our caregivers' group.
ReadMyths and facts
Six of the most damaging misconceptions about lupus, and what is actually true.
Turn the cardsRecognise, refer, manage
Clinical context for earlier recognition, referral pathways and patient management in African settings.
ReadResearch collaboration
How LFA works with researchers, and the principles we work by.
ReadWarrior and caregiver stories
Real experiences from members of the LFA community, shared with their consent.
Read the storiesAdvocacy and take action
What we are calling for, and four things you can do to add your voice.
Take actionEvents and campaigns
World Lupus Day 2026, wellness days, meet-ups and the full photo gallery.
See eventsLFA Newsletter, January to June 2026
Our first bi-annual newsletter: six months in numbers, World Lupus Day, advocacy, partners and community stories.
Preview the newsletterJoin the community
Membership, support groups, volunteering and caregiver support across our chapters.
Get involvedNo resources match that search. Try a different word, or ask us directly.
All medical content in this resource centre is written for education and awareness. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Clinical material is kept under review with our healthcare partners, and we welcome correction from qualified clinicians: info@lupusfa.org.
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