Women and Autoimmune Disease
50 million Americans suffer from autoimmune disease. Over 75% of them are women. Home to the largest rheumatology division in the nation, Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) is a world leader in the research and treatment of rheumatic disease. These illnesses, which include autoimmune related disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma, occur more frequently in women - with 1 in 12 affected in their lifetime. HSS has established the Women and Autoimmune Disease Initiative to advance how we diagnose and treat these diseases. The strong relationship between women and autoimmune disease points to women-specific traits as potential contributing factors, including genetics, hormones and environmental exposures. Leaders from our disease-specific centers of excellence and specialized research programs – the Mary Kirkland Center for Lupus Research, the Barbara Volcker Center for Women and Rheumatic Disease, and the David Z. Rosensweig Genomics Research Center – are using the Hospital’s extensive collection of patient data to explore the complex biology underlying autoimmune diseases in women, gain insight into the processes of autoimmunity, and transform women’s lives.
The Women and Autoimmune Disease Initiative is building on HSS’ history of innovative research in rheumatic disease. Women with autoimmune diseases often have complicated pregnancies. Investigators at HSS have made great strides in bringing mothers with lupus and their children through gestation safely, and they are dedicated to furthering this important work. Autoimmune related rheumatic disorders can affect your entire body. Your immune system turns on itself, attacking joints, bones, muscles, and organs. Symptoms of rheumatic disorders include: • joint pain • swelling
• chest pain • fatigue
• rashes
At HSS, you will be seen by an expert in the diagnosis of these disorders. Your rheumatologist will provide you with the most advanced treatments and use an integrative approach to your care, working with orthopedic surgeons, physical and occupational therapists, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals based on your individual needs. You will also receive education about your autoimmune disease and social support to help you live your life to the fullest. If you or a loved one is suffering, we are here to help. Contact Ambassador Services to set up an appointment with an HSS rheumatologist: 212.606.1610 or amabassadorservices@hss.edu
DID YOU KNOW? Autoimmune disease tends to cluster in families, often manifesting as different diseases in different family members.
How you can help The Women and Autoimmune Disease Initiative requires visionary philanthropic partners to further our understanding of the connection between women and these diseases. Your support will help bring new hope to the millions of women with autoimmune disease. To make a difference and for more information, please contact Alessandra T. Garber Development Director, Hospital for Special Surgery (212) 774-2881 or garbera@hss.edu For more information on the Rheumatology Division at HSS, please visit hss.edu/rheumatology