5 Risk Factors of Lupus

Race

Although it’s not fully understood why, African-American, Latino, Asian, and Native American individuals tend to be diagnosed more frequently than Caucasians.

In fact, African-American women are three times more likely to get lupus in comparison to Caucasian women. They also tend to develop lupus at a younger age and exhibit more severe symptoms. Researchers believe that genetics have a role to play across various ethnic groups.

Genetics

At this time, there has not been one specific gene or a group of genes that is known to cause lupus. What has been observed is that lupus does tend to appear amongst certain families.

Researchers have also identified possible genes which contribute to the development of lupus, but it’s not believed that these associations cause the disease. It’s important to note that lupus can develop in people who do not have a family history of this disease.