Women are 10 times more likely than men to develop lupus   Women are 10 times more likely than men to develop lupus, an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to attack healthy tissue and causes symptoms of fatigue, inflammation, muscle pain and sometimes significant damage to major organs. Research led by Chandra Mohan at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, TX suggests that the X chromosome contains a gene that seems to be linked to lupus, offering a possible explanation to why women are more at risk than men. The gene is IRAK1, and researchers found that mice at risk for lupus but lacking IRAK1 did not develop common lupus symptoms, including kidney problems, high white blood cell count and over production of antibodies. An international and multicultural study of humans found that individuals with lupus as children or adults had three different variations of IRAK1 in common. This study using mice confirmed that link. Researchers have previously theorized that hormone differences between men and women are the cause of more frequent occurrence in women. This is the first time a gene linked only to the X chromosome has been demonstrated as a factor in lupus. This research makes IRAK1 a major candidate for future genetic and functional analysis and research. More research will need to be done to compare genes that are linked to the X chromosome with hormonal differences, with the aim of determining which factor is more significant in causing the rate of lupus to be so different between genders. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Applying for disability with Schizophrenia Can I get disability for Rheumatoid arthritis? Social Security Disability, SSI, and autoimmune disorders How to file for disability in Oregon Can you get SSI disability faster with financial problems? Can a disability judge make a decision without a hearing? Applying for disability with bipolar, anxiety, antisocial personality disorder Trying to get disability with meniere's, degenerative disc, ankylosing spondylitis, depression, anxiety Can you file for disability with sleep apnea Does Social Security Hold Back The First five Months Of Back Pay? Winning and getting disability with a mental condition Getting disability for rheumatoid arthritis Going to a disability hearing without a lawyer How is Social Security Disability determined? Medical treatment and a Social Security Disability award Partial Social Security Disability SSI benefits