In October 2024 – we embarked on a collaboration with the Fiji National Kidney Center. Establishing a formal partnership to improve care for Lupus Nephritis Patients together with the Director of the Kidney Centre – Dr Anis Ta’eed and his team.
‘Lupus nephritis’ is an inflammation of the kidneys caused by ‘systemic lupus erythematosus’ (SLE), an autoimmune disease. It is a type of glomerulonephritis in which the glomeruli become inflamed. Since it is a result of SLE, this type of glomerulonephritis is said to be secondary, and has a different pattern and outcome from conditions with a primary cause originating in the kidneys. The diagnosis of ‘lupus nephritis’ depends on blood tests, urinalysis, X-rays, ultrasound scans of the kidneys, and a kidney biopsy. On urinalysis, a nephritic picture is found and red blood cell casts, red blood cells and proteinuria is found.
Discussions with the Dr. Ta’eed and his team were centered around – Collaboration Opportunities, Patient Education Initiatives, Patient Follow Up System, Treatment Adherence, Resource Support, Research and Data Sharing and Joint Advocacy Efforts.
All this is possible due to the signing of our MOU with the Ministry of Health and where the Lupus Foundation of Fiji can improve care for ‘Lupus Nephritis Patients’ – with joint health campaigns, medical workshops for healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers.
This is just the start of a partnership for which Team Lupus is grateful for. Thank you Dr Anis Ta’eed, Dr Raj and the team.
