ABSTRACT
@#Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with a wide range of manifestations and potential to affect several organ systems. Complications arise from the disease itself as well as the medications especially glucocorticoids, significantly contributing to overall morbidity and mortality. SLE predominantly affects patients during prime productive years resulting in a substantial economic burden on the patient, caregivers, and society due to direct, indirect and intangible costs. The University of Santo Tomas (UST) lupus database established in 2008 and supported by Lupus Inspired Advocacy (LUISA), aims to bring recognition of SLE as an important disease among Filipinos, serving as the impetus to drive policy makers to include SLE in the national health agenda.