What increases the risk of getting Lupus Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?

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What increases the risk of getting Lupus Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?

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The chances of developing lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE) are higher in people who:

Are female.
Are black.
Are between the ages 15 and 45.
Have a family history of lupus.
Take medications that are associated with drug-induced systemic lupus.

Results from studies are mixed on the effect that the hormone estrogen has on a woman's risk of lupus or of having lupus flares. For example, while most women do not have symptom flares during pregnancy, when a woman has a high level of estrogen, a few women do have flares during pregnancy. And although most women develop lupus when they are age 15 to 45, when estrogen levels are higher, a number of women develop lupus after menopause, when estrogen levels are low.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and birth control pills (oral contraceptives) do not appear to affect a woman's risk of lupus.²Birth control pills also do not appear to increase the chance of symptom flares in women with moderate lupus that is inactive or under control.³

Some research suggests smoking may increase the risk of getting lupus.¹

This answer should not be considered medical advice...This answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.

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Read the Original Article: Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)-What Increases Your Risk

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. © 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

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