Among the resources provided by The Initiative to support examination and conversation about the causes of health disparities in lupus will be: case studies and narratives, video modules specifically designed to stimulate consideration of one or more causes of disparities, notes accompanying curricula, thought-provoking information about life elements impacting lupus onset and outcomes and discussion questions.

There are multiple and overlapping factors causing health disparities. They are commonly called “determinants of health.” The Strategy for Achieving Health Equity, Executive Summary categorizes them under four categories which The Lupus Initiative uses as a starting point for examination and conversation:

Social determinants of health—differences in life opportunities and stresses that make some individuals and communities sicker than others. Examples include gender, socioeconomic status, employment status, educational attainment, food security status, availability of housing and transportation, racism, and health system access and quality

Behavioral determinants of health—examples include patterns of overweight and obesity; exercise norms; and use of illicit drugs, tobacco, or alcohol

Environmental determinants of health—lupus specific examples include viral infections, inhaling silica and tobacco smoke and being exposed to certain industrial solvents, ultraviolet light and certain drugs

Biological and genetic determinants of health—an example is family history. The Lupus Initiative provides a platform for discussion about the need for, and concerns about, gathering information and research regarding the extent of genetic contribution to disparities, prevention of manifestation of genetic causes and consideration of the need for tailored treatments based on genetics