Lupus Foundation of Jamaica Hosts 35th Annual Lupus Symposium, Advancing Understanding and Care for Lupus in Jamaica

Kingston, Jamaica – November 6, 2024 – The Lupus Foundation of Jamaica (LFJ) held its 35th Annual Lupus Symposium, an impactful event drawing experts, patients, and advocates to explore lupus and its effects on the brain and nervous system. The symposium, held on November 3, 2024, at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Regional Headquarters, gathered local and international specialists to shed light on Neuropsychiatric Lupus, a complex aspect of lupus that can affect mental and neurological health.

The Foundation’s President, Dr. Desiree Tulloch-Reid, opened the event with remarks emphasizing the significance of the symposium as part of the LFJ’s 40-year legacy. “This year’s theme, ‘Making Connections: Brain & Beyond in Lupus,’ is a testament to our commitment to bridging knowledge and support for those affected by lupus,” Dr. Tulloch-Reid stated. She highlighted the Foundation’s dedication to empowering lives and inspiring hope through awareness, research, and advocacy.

Honoring LFJ Pioneers and Longtime Supporters
The symposium paid tribute to Dr. Karel De Ceulaer, LFJ’s longest-serving President and a pioneer in lupus research and advocacy in Jamaica. Known for his dedication to lupus patients and advancements in treatment, Dr. De Ceulaer’s contributions have laid a foundation for the work carried out today by LFJ.

Prof. E. Nigel Harris, former Vice-Chancellor of UWI and a rheumatologist, delivered the opening address. Prof Harris is well-known internationally in the field of Rheumatology, having gained prominence in his early career by describing and developing tests to detect Antiphospholipid syndrome, responsible for serious complications in many lupus patients, enabling their treatment or prevention. Reflecting on his early experiences in rheumatology including patient care and research in Jamaica, Prof. Harris spoke about the profound impact the Foundation has had on his career and expressed his gratitude for being able to support LFJ’s work over the years. Prof. Harris received a citation from the Foundation in recognition of his invaluable contributions to lupus care and support of LFJ’s mission.

Expert Insights on Neuropsychiatric Lupus
The keynote speaker, Dr. Zahi Touma of the University of Toronto, head of its Neurolupus Program, shared essential findings on Neuropsychiatric Lupus (NPSLE), noting that this aspect of lupus, though complex, is not rare. Affecting 14-75% of individuals with lupus, depending on diagnostic criteria, NPSLE encompasses a range of symptoms, including cognitive impairment, depression, anxiety, and, in some cases, seizures and stroke. Dr. Touma emphasized the importance of early detection, accurate diagnosis and prompt and appropriate treatment, as these neuropsychiatric symptoms can have severe impacts on quality of life and in some cases lead to organ damage or even threaten life.

Additional sessions featured presentations from Dr. Roger Roberts, who discussed the psychiatric evaluation and management of lupus patients, and Dr. Michele Lee-Lambert, who spoke on the neurological manifestations of lupus. Dr. Lee-Lambert expressed her support for the symposium, stating, “The more educated we are about lupus, the sooner we can diagnose and manage its complications, benefiting countless individuals and families across Jamaica.” 

Dr. Sharlene Jarrett, a clinical psychologist, titled “Perceptions and Possibilities: Role of Peer Support for Lupus Patients in Jamaica.” Dr. Jarrett emphasized that lupus impacts every aspect of a person’s life—medical, social, and psychological—and that peer support is an invaluable resource for addressing these interconnected challenges.  She explained that structured peer support programs could help address gaps in care by offering psychosocial and practical assistance. LFJ is developing a training curriculum for peer mentors, tailored to the Jamaican context, to equip them with the skills to provide meaningful guidance to fellow lupus patients.

Perspectives from Lupus Patients and Mental Health Panel Discussion
The symposium included a powerful short film, “Patient Perspectives,” featuring individuals living with lupus who shared their personal experiences with neuropsychiatric lupus and the mental health challenges they face. The film highlighted how support from the Foundation has positively impacted their journey, shedding light on the importance of community and understanding for those affected.

Following the film, a panel discussion on mental health in lupus explored the social and psychological aspects of living with the disease. Topics included the impact of neuropsychiatric lupus on quality of life, the importance of peer and family support, and available mental health resources. Experts on the panel discussed ways to address stigma and the challenges of accessing adequate mental health care for lupus patients in Jamaica.

Support and Sponsorship
The symposium was made possible through the support of major sponsors, including Platinum Sponsors National Health Fund and Indus Life Sciences, and Gold Sponsor Wisynco Group and others. Members of the public may view the Symposium and presentations on the Foundations YouTube channel and Facebook pages.  The public is also invited to visit the Foundation’s website and/or Help Centre for further information about the Foundation’s Programmes and Services, to become a member, volunteer or donate to the charity which is seeking funding to expand critical programmes. 

About the Lupus Foundation of Jamaica
Established in 1984, the Lupus Foundation of Jamaica is a volunteer-run organization dedicated to supporting those affected by lupus through education, advocacy, and patient-centred support. The Foundation provides vital resources to patients, families, and healthcare professionals while promoting awareness and advancing research into lupus.

For more information, please contact:

Lupus Foundation of Jamaica
Unit 29, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10
Phone: 876-778-3892
Email: info@lupusfoundationjamaica.org
Website: www.lupusfoundationjamaica.org

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