Member Spotlight: Sjögren’s Foundation

By Theo Smith, Associate, Marketing & Communications

Sjögren’s is a systemic autoimmune disease that affects the entire body. This disease is often misrepresented as a rare disease, but there are an estimated four million Americans living with Sjögren’s, making it one of the most prevalent autoimmune diseases.

Sjögren’s is a challenging disease that is often overlooked or misdiagnosed since it can mimic other conditions and diseases. Currently, nine out of 10 diagnosed patients are women. However, Sjögren’s can be diagnosed in all ages, races, and genders. In recent years there has been a larger male population with Sjögren’s as well as a growing number of patients being diagnosed under 18.

Since Sjögren’s is a systemic disease and affects the entire body, the symptoms may remain steady or worsen overtime. Symptoms vary from patient to patient; however, many patients experience dry eyes, dry mouth, fatigue, and joint pain. There are several different medications available to manage symptoms. There is currently no cure. It is important for patients to be pro-active when talking to their physician about their symptoms, this may help prevent serious complications later.

The Sjögren’s Foundation is proud to be the first and only national nonprofit health organization leading the charge to conquer Sjögren’s. While focused on increasing research, education and awareness for this disease, the Foundation works on behalf of all Sjögren’s patients and is dedicated to conquering the complexities of this life-altering and debilitating disease.

The Foundation advocates for patients at the highest levels – the halls of Congress, U.S. government agencies, leading medical centers, and prominent research institutions. The Sjögren’s Foundation helps tell the stories of patients with Sjögren’s around the world and is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of patients with Sjögren’s by providing them with answers, initiatives, programs, and a sense of hope.

The Sjögren’s Foundation and the NHC work together to promote increased access to affordable, high-value, sustainable health care and keep the patient at the center of all our public policy work.

For more information about the Sjögren’s Foundation, visit their website.

For information on joining the NHC, contact Bob Scott, NHC’s Associate Director, Membership & Operations.