Selena Gomez opens up about biggest lupus misconception

Selena Gomez has spoken out about one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding lupus, saying the autoimmune disease is often misunderstood because its symptoms are not always visible.

The 33-year-old star, who was diagnosed with lupus around 2013, shared a video message raising awareness for the condition and highlighting the work of the Lupus Research Alliance.

In her message, Gomez said she wanted to “shine a light on what hope and action looks like” for the millions of people worldwide living with the disease.

“Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects the body but it can also deeply impact mental health,” she said, adding that the condition is close to her heart as a longtime mental health advocate. “The challenges of lupus might not always be visible but they are very real.”

She emphasised the importance of awareness, support and research, noting that collaboration between scientists, advocates and patients is helping drive progress toward better treatments and, eventually, a cure.

Lupus, according to the Mayo Clinic, occurs when the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues and organs, potentially affecting the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs and brain.

Gomez first publicly revealed her diagnosis in 2015, explaining that she had undergone chemotherapy as part of her treatment.

In 2017, she revealed she had received a kidney transplant due to complications from the disease.

Today, the singer continues to use her platform to raise awareness, encouraging people to understand the hidden impact of lupus and support ongoing research efforts.