On May 14, 2024, JKKN Dental College & Hospital successfully hosted World Lupus Day 2024, dedicated to increasing awareness about Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)—a chronic autoimmune disease affecting over 5 million people worldwide. The event aimed to educate, engage, and inspire action in support of lupus warriors under the global theme:
WORLD LUPUS DAY 2024 – #MakeLupusVisible
Event Overview
Date: May 14, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Venue: JKKN Dental College Library
Total Participants: 107
Why World Lupus Day Matters
Lupus, also known as “the disease of a thousand faces,” is an unpredictable condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to widespread inflammation in the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells. Despite its severe impact, lupus remains under-recognized globally, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and education.
Highlights of the Event
The event commenced with a learner-led conference, featuring insightful presentations, discussions, and interactive sessions guided by the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology. The final-year BDS learners and faculty members came together in purple attire, symbolizing their solidarity with lupus warriors.
Guest of Honor: Mr. N. Narayan Rao (COO, JKKN Dental College & Hospital)
Session Hosted By: Dr. Gokulapriya S (Senior Lecturer, Oral Medicine and Radiology)
Chaired By:
- Dr. Sasirekha (Professor & HOD, Oral Medicine and Radiology)
- Dr. Sakthi Saranya Devi (Reader, Oral Medicine and Radiology)
- Dr. Arun Viggnness (Senior Lecturer, Oral Medicine and Radiology)
- Dr. Krithika (Senior Lecturer, Oral Medicine and Radiology)
Engaging Team Presentations
Four dynamic teams of students delivered impactful presentations on various aspects of lupus:
TEAM 1: Keerthivashini C & Muhil K S – “Decoding Lupus” 
TEAM 2: Thirumurukash R & Thennarasu B S – “Living with Lupus” 
TEAM 3: Hariprasath G & Dinesh V M – “Unveiling the Enigmatic Lupus” 
TEAM 4: Surabhi A & Swetha C – “Lupus – The Present Mystery” 
Each presentation provided scientific insights, real-life case studies, and global incidence statistics to enhance understanding.
Poster Presentations: #MakeLupusVisible
Participants also showcased informative posters depicting:
Key lupus facts and statistics 
Early oral and systemic manifestations 
Challenges faced by lupus warriors 
Current treatment approaches 
Face Painting: Symbolizing Lupus Awareness
In a creative and symbolic gesture, students M.Uma, V.S.Aarthy, B.S. Thennarasu, and D. Carling Joshua performed an on-stage face painting demonstration. Their artwork depicted the classic malar rash (“butterfly rash”), a hallmark of lupus, serving as a visual representation of the disease’s impact.
Recognition & Closing Ceremony
Dr. Elanchezhiyan S, Principal of JKKN Dental College & Hospital, presented certificates of appreciation to the best poster presenters, acknowledging their efforts in raising lupus awareness.
The event concluded on a powerful note, reinforcing the importance of education, advocacy, and support for individuals battling lupus.
Key Takeaways
Understanding Lupus – Causes, symptoms, and early diagnosis Global Impact – The urgent need for awareness and medical advancements Community Support – Encouraging advocacy and empathy for lupus warriors Empowering Future Healthcare Professionals – Educating students on recognizing and managing lupus symptoms
This World Lupus Day, JKKN Dental College & Hospital took a meaningful step toward making lupus more visible, ensuring that more voices are heard, and more lives are positively impacted.
Together, we stand for Lupus Warriors!
