For Immediate Release 516-783-3370
June 2006 Contact: Silvia Heredia

Bellmore, NY - Abnormal photosensitivity is a major feature of both Systemic Lupus, which can affect any
organ or system of the body and Discoid Lupus, which is mainly limited to the skin. According to the
American College of Rheumatology, photosensitivity has been identified in one-half to three-fourths of
people with systemic lupus and about 50 percent of those with Discoid Lupus. The reason for such
sensitivity in people with lupus is still not completely known and is currently the focus of several research
projects.

Sunlight can cause skin lesions, rashes, joint pains, and fatigue in someone who has lupus. The Lupus
Alliance of LI/Q wants to make sure that during UV Safety month, everyone with lupus is aware of this
danger and suggests the following sun precautions to anyone who has lupus;

·Avoid the sun during peak hours.
·Dress sensibly – most clothing absorbs or reflects UV rays, but white fabric and wet clothes do not offer much protection.
·Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 on all exposed skin, including the lips, even on cloudy days.
·If exposed to water, either through swimming or sweating, a water-resistant sunscreen should be used.
·Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
·Sit in the shade whenever possible.

Most everyone with lupus, except the most extreme cases, should be able to enjoy sunny days. By using a
little common sense, as well as the above guidelines anyone with lupus should be able to go out and enjoy
the long days of summer. For more information about lupus and UV rays please call the Lupus Alliance of
LI/Q at 1-800-850-9000, or email them at: info@lupusliqueens.org.
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