East Stroudsburg University Seeks Volunteers for Lupus Study

A new research study exploring the effects of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) on hearing, cognition, and language is calling for volunteers.

The study, to be conducted at the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders of East Stroudsburg University, aims to better understand both these autoimmune diseases and investigate the potential of new therapies and treatment strategies.

All volunteers participating in the study will complete a survey and be invited to complete a comprehensive hearing evaluation or an evaluation of their language and cognitive-linguistic skills.

The study participation will involve one to three sessions of 30 minutes to two hours each. The sessions will take place at the Speech and Hearing Center located in Monroe Hall on the campus of ESU.

For more information about the study, and how to take part, contact LuAnn Batson Magnuson, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders, at 570-422-3311, or email [email protected], or Susan Dillmuth-Miller, assistant professor of communication sciences and disorders, at 570-422-3684, or email [email protected].

SLE is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system makes antibodies to cells in the body, leading to widespread inflammation and tissue damage. The causes of lupus are unknown, but are believed to be linked to genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.

According to the Lupus Foundation of America, about 1.5 million Americans and at least 5 million people globally are estimated to have some form of lupus. Ninety percent of those diagnosed are women.

About 70 percent of all cases are diagnosed as SLE and in about half of these cases, a major organ will be affected.

There are several reasons to participate in a research study. One is to get access to a treatment that is not otherwise available. Clinical trials also help to advance science and to generally help other people with the medical condition. Studies may help move forward a new treatment, but could also improve the general understanding of the disease.

For more information about clinical trials, please visit our page here.