Israeli scientists say lupus may double risk of dementia

Selena Gomez’s autoimmune disease, lupus, increases the risk of dementia by 50 percent for her and 1.5 million Americans affected by the condition, a new study suggests.

Lupus causes the body’s immune system to break cells in parts of the body including the kidneys, lungs, skin and blood vessels.

This study follows on from previous research that has also suggested that it may impair memory and cognitive functions as well.

Lupus sufferers of all ages are at higher risk to develop dementia, according to the study authors, who suggest that doctors check for lupus when their patients show signs of early onset dementia.

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