In a new survey, Health Union has gathered patient-reported data from hundreds of real people impacted by lupus. The inaugural Lupus In America survey, a syndicated research study from Health Union, quantifies the true impact of this condition among patients – going beyond basic demographics and symptoms to establish a deep understanding of the holistic patient journey for those affected and to track trends over time.

The new data from the inaugural Lupus In America survey reveals deep insights of a population of 589 people, of which 40% had been initially misdiagnosed and half have never gone into remission. Additionally, 93% of the survey respondents currently use an antimalarial/immunosuppressant treatment, but only 16% of the survey respondents express satisfaction with their current treatment plan.

The experiences of the lupus community are unique, as many patients feel misunderstood. One survey respondent expressed in an open-ended question, “I wish more doctors knew about lupus. I have seen countless doctors that only know about ANA testing and nothing more. Most of them think lupus symptoms are just ordinary symptoms, easily explained away. Very frustrating.”

This access to a broad base of knowledge, facts and data gleaned from Health Union’s open online health communities like Lupus.net and syndicated research allows the healthcare industry to harness the power of Health Union’s continuous immersion in the patient experience to deliver smarter insights and implications–so you can spend your time developing the strategies that will make a difference.