[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 146 (Friday, October 17, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2081]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING LUPUS INTERNATIONAL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. CHRISTOPHER COX

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 17, 2003

  Mr. COX. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call this Congress' attention 
to a devastating disease that affects millions of Americans.
  Systematic Lupus Erythematosus, commonly known as lupus, is a 
chronic, complex, and often life-threatening autoimmune disease. It 
causes the immune system to become hyperactive and attack the body's 
own tissue, damaging vital organs which can lead to severe disability 
or death.
  Research shows that 2.8 million people have been diagnosed with lupus 
in the United States--more than those affected by AIDS, Cerebral Palsy, 
Multiple Sclerosis, Sickle Cell Anemia and Cystic Fibrosis combined. 
Although lupus can affect people of all ages, it strikes primarily 
women between the ages of 16-45, and is currently the fourth leading 
cause of disability in females.
  To date, there is no known cure for lupus and there are still very 
few treatments specific to the disease. However, with increased public 
awareness, education, and innovative research, we are hopeful that this 
battle can and will be won. Lupus International, a nonprofit 
organization in Irvine, California, has been a champion in the field of 
lupus research since it was founded in 1983. Over 2 decades, Lupus 
International has worked to alleviate suffering for millions of 
patients through support services and early detection of undiagnosed 
cases through awareness promotion.
  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Lupus International 
for its 20-year commitment to finding a cure for lupus, and its 
tremendous service to millions of Americans suffering from this 
devastating disease.

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