Lupus & the Future of Care: Innovations That Matter to You

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From virtual doctor visits to COVID-19 vaccine safety, discover how researchers are tackling the challenges that matter most to people with lupus.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease that affects more than 250,000 Americans. Managing lupus requires regular doctor visits and lab tests—but for many, barriers like transportation, childcare, or work schedules make it hard to keep up.

One study, led by Sebastian Bruera, MD of Boston College of Medicine and funded through a 2023 Investigator Award, is testing how a structured telemedicine program can help reduce missed appointments and make care more accessible—especially for under-resourced patients living with lupus.

At the same time, another Foundation-funded project is focused on vaccine safety. Rebecca Sadun, MD, PhD of Duke University, recipient of a 2022 Investigator Award, is investigating how effective—and how safe—COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are for people with lupus, particularly those on immune-suppressing treatments. By analyzing real-world patient data, her study is helping to clarify both the benefits and potential risks, so patients and providers can make more informed decisions.

Together, these studies are helping to build a future where lupus care is not only more advanced but also more personal, inclusive, and equitable.