Senator files bill to establish a national health program to fight lupus

A bill seeking to a national health program to promote public awareness and establish early detection and prevention of Lupus has been filed at the Senate.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) or “lupus” is defined as a chronic auto-immune disease where the immune system attacks the body’s cells and tissue, resulting in inflammation and tissue damage in different parts of the body but most often affecting the heart, joints, skin, lungs, blood vessels, liver, kidneys and nervous system.

Under Senate Bill No. 2070 or “Comprehensive Lupus Prevention Act,” the National Institute of Health of the Department of Health shall conduct an annual survey to determine the extent and total incidence and prevalence of persons with lupus in the country in order for the government to provide the necessary health interventions to address the needs of patients.

The bill, filed in October 2018, states the DOH shall implement a comprehensive and nationwide program on lupus prevention and treatment to provide mechanisms for early identification, screening, and diagnosis; establish sustainable support networks for families; and undertake research and collaborate with other institutions, among others.

Senator Nancy Binay, author of the bill, said there is no cure for lupus, however, medical interventions and lifestyle changes can help control it.

She said the proposed measure seeks to strengthen research and development in order to support and manage treatment of this disease.

“In addition, the increased awareness will encourage understanding, early detection and intervention which are critical in alleviating symptoms,” she said.

She said the proposed measure will also help empower those suffering from Lupus to be independent, self-reliant and productive members of society.

The bill also includes a provision to have the fees on early detection and screening programs for lupus covered by the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PHIC) or Philhealth.

“In order to grow national interest and participation in the issues and concerns of lupus patients, the first week of May shall annually be celebrated as ‘Lupus Awareness Week.’ This week-long activity will be spearheaded by the DOH, in coordination with other concerned agencies, institutions and stakeholders,” the senator said. —LDF, GMA News