STA. BARBARA, Pangasinan (PIA) – A health expert from the Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC) in Dagupan City is calling on the public to boost their immunity as a measure to prevent lupus, citing government health initiatives.

Dr. Marvin Callanta, who specializes in pediatrics and nephrology, said that lupus, caused by genetics and environmental triggers such as stress and sunlight, is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various body systems including the brain, heart, joints, kidneys, lungs, and skin.

“If you have lupus, your enemy is yourself – that is why it is called an autoimmune disease. Instead of your immune system fighting foreign antigens such as bacteria, germs, and viruses, it destroys what it is supposed to protect,” Callanta explained.

He said that lupus symptoms include fever, hair loss, kidney problems, muscle and joint pain, prolonged or extreme fatigue, and rashes.

He added that lupus symptoms can vary in severity and may affect one or multiple parts of the body.

“In a year, we see 10 to 20 new patients with lupus, in addition to those already in our service,” Callanta said.

Hence, Callanta advised that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial to fighting infections.

Some healthy lifestyle practices he recommended to boost the immune system are adequate rest, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sun protection.

“Most lupus appears when a person – especially a female because of her chromosomes – hits puberty. However, it can be controlled; treatment can help improve symptoms, prevent flare-ups, and reduce the risk of developing other health issues,” Callanta stated, stressing that it is a life-long treatment.

Meanwhile, Callanta said that R1MC is regularly conducting information campaigns to impart to the public that lupus is not a contagious disease and remove the stigma against it.

He said that R1MC is dedicated to providing vital information about lupus and other infectious diseases through their official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/r1mcofficial aiming to reach a wider audience.

He also said that they are willing to collaborate with government media partners and conduct forums to disseminate crucial information to those affected by the disease and their families.

Moreover, Callanta said that R1MC’s healthcare services and resources for those diagnosed with lupus are accessible, and mental health support services are readily available.

For mental health services, residents in Pangasinan may call 0932-988-8992.

Callanta encourages individuals with lupus symptoms to seek medical check-ups for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Likewise, he reminded the public not to discriminate against lupus patients, and those who have it can still be productive members of society and contribute to the workforce and economy. (JCR/AMB/JCDR, PIA Pangasinan)