the chances of developing lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus or sle) are higher in people who: are female. are black. are between the ages 15 and 45. have a family history of lupus. take medications that are associated with drug-induced systemic lupus. results from studies are mixed on the effect that the hormone estrogen has on a woman's risk of lupus or of having lupus flares. for example while most women do not have symptom flares during pregnancy when a woman has a high level of estrogen a few women do have flares during pregnancy. and although most women develop lupus when they are age 15 to 45 when estrogen levels are higher a number of women develop lupus after menopause when estrogen levels are low. hormone replacement therapy ( hrt ) and birth control pills (oral contraceptives ) do not appear to affect a woman's risk of lupus. 2 birth control pills also do not appear to increase the chance of symptom flares in women with moderate lupus that is inactive or under control. 3 some research suggests smoking may increase the risk of getting lupus. 1 webmd medical reference from healthwise this information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. © 1995-2011 healthwise incorporated. healthwise healthwise for every health decision and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise incorporated.
what increases the risk of getting lupus systemic lupus erythematosus?