Autoimmune diseases have long been under the limelight as a class of diseases. While cancer and heart disease statistics are often aggregated to show their impact, autoimmune diseases are rarely classified as a class. Yet, they are estimated to affect 20 million Americans and collectively constitute a leading cause of death for women under the age of 75.
To raise awareness of autoimmune diseases, the Autoimmune Registry partnered with Story Booth to create a special collections page featuring stories from patients with autoimmune diseases. We are proud to have worked on the Story Booth project, a PCORI-funded study that aims to bring researchers closer to patient perspectives by sharing stories from patients, caregivers, and physicians. Through this page, we hope to bring focus to the struggles of autoimmune disease patients, shedding light on issues such as lengthy diagnoses and instances of medical gaslighting.
Patients with autoimmune diseases often live with invisible battles. Common symptoms can go unnoticed and be dismissed by medical professionals for extended periods. Showcasing the stories of autoimmune disease patients not only raises awareness of their common struggles but also underscores the widespread prevalence of these conditions which can manifest in a myriad of different ways.
To listen to these stories, please visit the Autoimmune Diseases Special Collection Page. You can also share your story by visiting here.
To support the Autoimmune Registry, please join our registry or share it with a friend who has an autoimmune condition. Donations are also greatly appreciated!
