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Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune process with the potential to detrimentally impact every organ system in the human body. According to Dr. Michelle Petri, up to two-thirds of SLE cases are due to genetic predisposition, with SLE being more prevalent and severe among African- and Hispanic-Americans. The remaining one-third of cases may be attributed to environmental and hormonal components, with women being affected more than men in a 9:1 ratio. The implications of SLE are far-reaching, and it is important to develop a greater understanding of the disease to further improve current diagnostic and management strategies.