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The Lupus Research Program (LRP) was first funded in FY17 to support innovative and impactful research that addresses significant issues and gaps in lupus.

Lupus is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease that is difficult to diagnose and treat. There is currently no test available to diagnose lupus and it may take months or years for a person to be correctly diagnosed. Because lupus attacks healthy cells and tissues in many parts of the body, patients can experience a wide range of symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, skin lesions, and headaches. Lupus can also cause inflammation in the kidneys, brain, blood vessels, lungs, and heart which can result in serious complications including organ damage. Lupus patients require a diverse team of healthcare specialists depending on their symptoms.

Treatment options for lupus are highly dependent on an individual patient's symptoms. Some of the most commonly used drugs to treat lupus include Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants. Long-term use of these treatments can result in serious side-effects including kidney problems, stomach bleeding, liver damage, increased risk of infection, decreased fertility, and increased risk of cancer. Better treatment options are a critical need for lupus patients.

Summary of FISCAL YEAR 2017 Stakeholders Meeting

Connecting LRP Applicants with Other Funding Organizations

The LRP is committed to leveraging efforts with other funding organizations to accelerate progress in lupus research. At the time of funding notifications, the LRP will inform highly-rated, unfunded applicants about opportunities to provide their LRP applications and peer review summary statements to non-governmental funders, who will determine the specific criteria for funding consideration. The LRP will collaborate with partner organizations and consumer advocacy groups currently involved with the LRP. Other organizations that would like to be connected with unfunded LRP applicants may send an email to usarmy.detrick.medcom-cdmrp.mbx.cdmrp-public-affairs@health.mil. By connecting excellent applicants with other funding organizations, the LRP is further advancing lupus research and supporting the lupus community.