Seek early medical help for unexplained symptoms, urges Lupus patient

A 31-year-old lupus patient is urging Fijians experiencing unexplained symptoms to seek medical help early, saying timely diagnosis can make a significant difference in managing the disease.

Faioa Leupena shared her experience during the International Lupus Day 2026 celebrations at Albert Park Pavilion in Suva yesterday, describing lupus as a life-changing condition that continues to affect her daily life more than a decade after diagnosis.

“When I found out that I had lupus, I had no idea what lupus was,” Ms Leupena said.

She said living with lupus requires lifelong medication and constant management of her health, social life and family responsibilities.

“I think the biggest struggle is trying to maintain lupus while living my daily life,” she said.

“It does affect my daily life, where I need a lot of rest, so I cannot be overdoing things.”

Ms Leupena said the condition also limits her ability to maintain a normal routine or overwork herself.

She is encouraging people who suspect they may have lupus or similar symptoms to seek medical advice before the condition worsens.

“It is really important that you manage the disease because it will affect your life in the future if you don’t,” she said.

“There’s nothing to be ashamed of. There are a lot of people who have it as well and can manage lupus.”

She said support systems are now available in Fiji through hospitals and lupus support organisations, and increased awareness is helping more people seek early treatment.