[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Header” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#a7a2e5″ background_image=”https:\/\/ftww.org.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/LC_1000px_autoimmune.png” background_size=”contain” background_position=”bottom_right” background_blend=”multiply” custom_padding=”40px||24px||false|false” background_last_edited=”on|phone” background_image_phone=”https:\/\/ftww.org.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/LC_1000px_autoimmune.png” background_enable_image_phone=”on” background_size_tablet=”custom” background_image_width_tablet=”75%” background_image_width_phone=”100%” background_position_tablet=”bottom_center” background_position_phone=”bottom_center” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” border_radii=”on|0px|0px|0px|0px” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” height_tablet=”” height_phone=”” height_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”0px|auto|0px|auto|false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”20px|auto|0px|auto|false|false” custom_margin_phone=”20px|auto|0px|auto|false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|tablet” custom_padding=”|70px|0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|70px|0px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”|0px|||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”e864d11f-3dab-4fa3-ac06-4f0e1a260807″ header_font=”DM Sans||||||||” header_text_color=”#103638″ header_font_size=”64px” header_letter_spacing=”-0.02em” header_line_height=”1.15em” custom_margin=”||16px||false|false” header_font_size_tablet=”40px” header_font_size_phone=”43px” header_font_size_last_edited=”on|desktop” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”41d5859c-fbaa-458a-88e4-5d886857f235″ text_font=”|600|||||||” text_text_color=”#103638″ text_font_size=”21px” min_height=”246px” custom_padding=”||5px|||” text_font_size_tablet=”20px” text_font_size_phone=”18px” text_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Women are four times more likely to develop autoimmune diseases than men, and many of these conditions negatively affect quality of life. This page provides information about autoimmune diseases, and our work in this area. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_image=”off” background_size=”contain” background_position=”bottom_center” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” height_tablet=”309px” height_phone=”208px” height_last_edited=”on|tablet” max_height=”1000px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#a7a2e5″ positioning=”none” width=”100%” custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” sticky_position=”top” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,1_4,1_2″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”12px||13px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”12px||13px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”||12px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|||||||” text_font_size=”21px” header_text_align=”center” custom_margin=”3px|||0px|false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”3px|||||” custom_margin_phone=”3px||-27px||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Autoimmune diseases<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|700|||||||” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”3px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”3px||||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n On this page:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_menu menu_id=”470″ menu_style=”centered” submenu_direction=”downwards” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” menu_font=”|600|||||||” menu_text_color=”#103638″ menu_font_size=”18px” background_enable_color=”off” min_height=”27px” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”-20px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” sticky_position=”top” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_menu][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”2px||2px|||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_module=”201398″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”196%” content_max_width=”100%” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” body_font_size=”17px” image_icon_custom_margin=”9px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The following information is based on the lived experiences and priorities expressed to us by our community. If you need medical\/health advice, please contact a GP or medical professional. Read our\u00a0medical disclaimer<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Cards” module_id=”about” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f1f2eb” custom_padding=”||4px|||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||7px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#19583B” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||35px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Autoimmune diseases are complex, often affecting multiple systems and different parts of the body, so symptoms can vary in nature and in severity. Some people can have more than one autoimmune condition. They are also often progressive, meaning they can get worse if not identified early and treated. These conditions can have severe implications for overall health and wellbeing.<\/p>\n The causes of autoimmune diseases are not fully understood but possibilities include genetics, hormones, reproductive health events like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause (which may play a part in explaining why these conditions are much more common in women than men), and viral infection.<\/p>\n More research is needed to help us to understand why more women than men are affected, how to prevent these conditions from developing, speed up diagnosis, improve treatment options, or even come up with a cure!<\/p>\n Rare Auto-Immune Rheumatic Diseases (RAIRDs), including Lupus<\/strong> and Sjogren\u2019s Syndrome<\/strong> affect approximately 9,500 people in Wales. At least 80% of those affected are female. Lupus is also more common in black and Asian women.<\/p>\n More information about the symptoms and treatments of autoimmune diseases can be found at on the NHS Wales website here<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Cards” module_id=”campaign” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f1f2eb” custom_padding=”15px||0px|||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row module_id=”campaign” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||34px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#19583B” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”19px” background_color=”#f7f7f7″ custom_padding=”20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true” border_radii=”on|12px|12px|12px|12px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Our overall aim is to raise awareness, reduce diagnostic delays, and improve access <\/b>to specialist services for autoimmune diseases for patients in Wales.<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”||37px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We need to raise awareness of these conditions and particularly how they disproportionately impact females.<\/p>\n Many women often report their symptoms not being taken seriously, resulting in delayed or missed diagnoses. We want to ensure women\u2019s voices are heard, and that the care offered to them optimal and timely.<\/p>\n Testing for autoimmune conditions can be a bit hit and miss, highlighting the need for more research into diagnosis and effective treatment options.<\/p>\n Given the seriousness of these conditions, it\u2019s important that specialist care is available to patients who need it, no matter where in Wales they live.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”19px” background_color=”#f7f7f7″ custom_padding=”20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true” border_radii=”on|12px|12px|12px|12px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In Wales, <\/b>a lack of knowledge, understanding, and investment in <\/b><\/span>autoimmune diseases results in delays in diagnosis and barriers to accessing treatment <\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text ul_item_indent=”48px” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” ul_font_size=”17px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In Wales, there is a lack of:<\/p>\n There are also postcode lotteries to specialist care, where only patients in certain health boards, or with enough disposable income to pay for private healthcare across the border (in England) can access it.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”list_spacing” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”19px” background_color=”#f7f7f7″ custom_padding=”20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true” border_radii=”on|12px|12px|12px|12px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We need to:<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”lead” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#003E51″ custom_padding=”||3px|||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||54px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”treatment” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/ftww.org.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Wendy-D-autoimmune.jpg” title_text=”Wendy-D-autoimmune” disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_layout=”dark” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n “I am driven by this overwhelming sense of frustration and anger, of injustice, at the fact that in England, lupus patients can request to be seen by a lupus expert or attend an NHS LUPUS UK Centre of Excellence, and they have a right to a second opinion. It is their choice.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, here in Wales we have no right to a second opinion from an expert of our choice and the system doesn\u2019t routinely or easily allow us to access a specialist centre.<\/p>\n This is why I campaign with FTWW. “<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9wcm9qZWN0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjIwMTI2MiJ9fQ==@” button_text=”Read Wendy’s story” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _dynamic_attributes=”button_url” _module_preset=”default” button_text_color=”#a7a2e5″ global_colors_info=”{}” button_bg_color__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_bg_color__hover=”rgba(255,255,255,0.16)” button_bg_enable_color__hover=”on”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Cards” module_id=”achievements” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f1f2eb” custom_padding=”29px|||||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||19px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#19583B” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”||36px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Our campaign activity to improve the lives of those with autoimmune conditions is extensive. Some of our achievements are outlined below:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_icon font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#F8F7E7″ icon_width=”38px” align=”left” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#a7a2e5″ z_index=”-90″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”10px|10px|10px|10px|false|false” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” border_width_all=”8px” border_color_all=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_icon][et_pb_text module_class=”list_spacing” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_5_font_size=”19px” background_color=”#f7f7f7″ custom_margin=”-128px||39px|71px|false|false” custom_padding=”20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true” border_radii=”on|12px|12px|12px|12px” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.13)” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_icon font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#F8F7E7″ icon_width=”38px” align=”left” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#a7a2e5″ z_index=”-90″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”10px|10px|10px|10px|false|false” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” border_width_all=”8px” border_color_all=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_icon][et_pb_text module_class=”list_spacing” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” header_5_font_size=”19px” background_color=”#f7f7f7″ custom_margin=”-128px||39px|71px|false|false” custom_padding=”20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true” hover_enabled=”0″ border_radii=”on|12px|12px|12px|12px” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.13)” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_icon font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#F8F7E7″ icon_width=”38px” align=”left” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#a7a2e5″ z_index=”-90″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”10px|10px|10px|10px|false|false” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” border_width_all=”8px” border_color_all=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_icon][et_pb_text module_class=”list_spacing” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_5_font_size=”19px” background_color=”#f7f7f7″ custom_margin=”-128px||12px|71px|false|false” custom_padding=”20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true” border_radii=”on|12px|12px|12px|12px” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.13)” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”news” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#19583B” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog fullwidth=”off” posts_number=”3″ include_categories=”472″ show_author=”off” show_categories=”off” show_excerpt=”off” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h3″ module_alignment=”center” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blog][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” module_id=”stories” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#003E51″ positioning=”none” custom_padding=”0px||3px|||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”56px||56px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”treatment” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_portfolio fullwidth=”off” posts_number=”3″ include_categories=”476″ show_categories=”off” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_text_color=”#ffffff” title_font_size=”26px” title_line_height=”1.9em” background_layout=”dark” min_height=”126.8px” custom_padding=”||0px|||” border_radii_image=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_portfolio][et_pb_button button_url=”\/story\/” button_text=”View all stories” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” button_text_color=”#a7a2e5″ global_colors_info=”{}” button_bg_color__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_bg_color__hover=”rgba(255,255,255,0.16)” button_bg_enable_color__hover=”on”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ disabled_on=”on|on|on” admin_label=”Cards” module_id=”about” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f1f2eb” custom_padding=”||4px|||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||19px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#19583B” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by social communication differences and a need for routine and consistency which is often observed as repetitive, stereotyped behaviours.<\/p>\n Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is another neurodevelopmental condition characterised by attention differences – typically difficulty maintaining attention, difficulty in switching attention (hyperfocus), or both – and difficulties with executive function.<\/p>\n Women, girls, and those registered female at birth often have their difficulties overlooked because of outdated stereotypes and misconceptions of autism.<\/p>\n Around 1.1% of the population is autistic – that means 17,000 women in Wales could be autistic. ADHD prevalence figures vary, though NHS England states 3-5% of children and 2% of adults equating to a possible 31,800 women. However, due to inequitable diagnosis, official figures for women are lower.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”symptoms” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#19583B” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Communication and social interaction differences:<\/p>\n Restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests:<\/p>\n Sensory differences<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”diagnosis” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#19583B” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In the UK, the process of diagnosing autism for both children and adults is thorough and multifaceted. It often begins with a referral from a GP or another healthcare professional to a specialist for a comprehensive assessment. This assessment is about identifying the condition and understanding its depth and breadth in the individual.<\/p>\n An autism diagnosis should be based on criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) or the International Classification of Diseases 11th Revision (ICD-11), according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines.<\/p>\n Although many people (including most autistic people) do not consider autism to be a disorder, and autism is not a disease, these manuals are the standard classification systems used by health care professionals to assess and diagnose autism.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”treatment” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#19583B” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Support is offered post diagnosis in some cases to help a individual understand how their autism impacts them and to develop a toolkit of strategies and coping mechanisms such as sensory profiles and support to disclose and ask for adjustments.<\/p>\n Mental health support needs to be adapted for autistic and neurodivergent people and needs to be provided by practitioners who have a good understanding of autism and neurodivergent conditions and who operates in neurodiversity affirming way [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” admin_label=”Cards” module_id=”advocacy” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”gcid-7b46fb6c-c514-4554-bd32-6a4fa27b792a” custom_padding=”21px||4px|||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_module=”202621″ global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-7b46fb6c-c514-4554-bd32-6a4fa27b792a%22:%91%22background_color%22%93}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||63px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”gcid-c95dc54a-2f3f-4a8b-8981-6a040a1dc024″ background_layout=”dark” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-c95dc54a-2f3f-4a8b-8981-6a040a1dc024%22:%91%22header_2_text_color%22%93}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Many women find it difficult to discuss health issues and seek support, even if these health issues are having a significant impact on their lives.<\/p>\n We’re working with our community to develop tools and tips to help women to speak up, and provide guidance for people who would like to support their loved ones, friends, colleagues or patients who are living with health conditions.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”3px||48px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb title=”Self advocacy tookit” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_placement=”left” disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_font_size=”20px” background_color=”#f7f7f7″ custom_padding=”16px|16px|16px|16px|true|true” link_option_url=”\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/FTWW-Final-AIR-22-23-Eng.docx” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” background_color__hover=”#ffffff” background_enable_color__hover=”on”]<\/p>\n This report provides detailed information about FTWW\u2019s work, achievements, and finances during the 12 months from April 2022 to March 2023.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_button button_url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9wYWdlIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjIwMjM3NyJ9fQ==@” button_text=”Get tips and advice” button_alignment=”left” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _dynamic_attributes=”button_url” _module_preset=”default” button_text_size=”16px” button_text_color=”gcid-c95dc54a-2f3f-4a8b-8981-6a040a1dc024″ button_border_radius=”39px” custom_margin=”-29px||0px||false|false” button_bg_color_tablet=”” button_bg_color_phone=”” button_bg_color_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-c95dc54a-2f3f-4a8b-8981-6a040a1dc024%22:%91%22button_text_color%22,%22button_text_color__hover%22%93}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_text_color__hover=”#195942″ button_bg_color__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_bg_color__hover=”#ffffff” button_bg_enable_color__hover=”on”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_placement=”left” disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_layout=”dark” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This gu<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Writing to your Senedd Member ” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_placement=”left” disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_layout=”dark” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This gu<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Cards” module_id=”documents-links” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f1f2eb” custom_padding=”7px|||||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”documents” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#19583B” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb title=”FTWW’s bi-lingual Autoimmune leaflet” url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9hdHRhY2htZW50Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjI1MDgxNSJ9fQ==@” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#D83845″ icon_placement=”left” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _dynamic_attributes=”link_option_url,url” _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_font_size=”20px” background_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”16px|16px|16px|16px|true|true” link_option_url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9hdHRhY2htZW50Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjI1MDgxNSJ9fQ==@” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This flyer provides a brief overview of our work in this area and why it is needed<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Making the Case for Better Lupus and Rare Auto-Immune Disease Provision for Patients in Wales (2021)” url=”\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Making-the-Case-for-Better-Lupus-and-Rare-Auto-Immune-Disease-Provision-for-Patients-in-Wales-Final.pdf” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#D83845″ icon_placement=”left” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _dynamic_attributes=”link_option_url” _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_font_size=”20px” background_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”16px|16px|16px|16px|true|true” link_option_url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9hdHRhY2htZW50Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjIwMTA4NyJ9fQ==@” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_module=”203843″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Read this report compiled by FTWW<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Women’s Health Wales: A Quality Statement for the Health of Women, Girls and those Assigned Female at Birth 2022″ url=”\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Womens-Health-Wales-Quality-Statement-English-FINAL.pdf” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#D83845″ icon_placement=”left” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _dynamic_attributes=”link_option_url” _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_font_size=”20px” background_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”16px|16px|16px|16px|true|true” link_option_url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9hdHRhY2htZW50Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjE5NjEwNyJ9fQ==@” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_module=”201216″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Read more about our recommendations to the Welsh Government in this report by the #WomensHealthWales coalition\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb title=”Rheumatology.org.uk” url=”https:\/\/www.rheumatology.org.uk\/” url_new_window=”on” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#D83845″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”25px” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_font_size=”19px” background_enable_color=”off” image_icon_custom_margin=”|0px||15px|false|false” image_icon_custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_margin=”||12px|||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true” link_option_url_new_window=”on” hover_enabled=”0″ border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Lupus UK” url=”https:\/\/lupusuk.org.uk\/” url_new_window=”on” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#D83845″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”25px” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_font_size=”19px” background_enable_color=”off” image_icon_custom_margin=”|0px||15px|false|false” image_icon_custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_margin=”||12px|||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Sj\u00f6gren’s UK” url=”https:\/\/sjogrensuk.org\/” url_new_window=”on” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#D83845″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”25px” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_font_size=”19px” background_enable_color=”off” image_icon_custom_margin=”|0px||15px|false|false” image_icon_custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_margin=”||12px|||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Versus Arthritis” url=”https:\/\/www.versusarthritis.org\/in-your-area\/wales\/” url_new_window=”on” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#D83845″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”25px” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_font_size=”19px” background_enable_color=”off” image_icon_custom_margin=”|0px||15px|false|false” image_icon_custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_margin=”||12px|||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS)” url=”https:\/\/nras.org.uk\/” url_new_window=”on” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#D83845″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”25px” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_font_size=”19px” background_enable_color=”off” image_icon_custom_margin=”|0px||15px|false|false” image_icon_custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_margin=”||12px|||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Thyroid UK” url=”https:\/\/thyroiduk.org\/if-you-are-hypothyroid\/about-hypothyroidism\/hashimotos-disease-2\/” url_new_window=”on” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#D83845″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”25px” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ 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global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”The British Society for Rheumatology guideline for the management of systemic lupus erythematosus in adults (2018)” url=”https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/rheumatology\/article\/57\/1\/e1\/4318863″ url_new_window=”on” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#D83845″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”25px” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_font_size=”19px” background_enable_color=”off” image_icon_custom_margin=”|0px||15px|false|false” image_icon_custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_margin=”||12px|||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Mae menywod bedair gwaith yn fwy tebygol o ddatblygu clefydau awtoimiwnaidd na dynion. Rhagor o wybodaeth am glefydau awtoimiwnaidd, ac am ein gwaith ni yn y maes.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":195132,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","_price":"","_stock":"","_tribe_ticket_header":"","_tribe_default_ticket_provider":"","_tribe_ticket_capacity":"0","_ticket_start_date":"","_ticket_end_date":"","_tribe_ticket_show_description":"","_tribe_ticket_show_not_going":false,"_tribe_ticket_use_global_stock":"","_tribe_ticket_global_stock_level":"","_global_stock_mode":"","_global_stock_cap":"","_tribe_rsvp_for_event":"","_tribe_ticket_going_count":"","_tribe_ticket_not_going_count":"","_tribe_tickets_list":"[]","_tribe_ticket_has_attendee_info_fields":false,"footnotes":"","_tec_slr_enabled":"","_tec_slr_layout":""},"class_list":["post-196749","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/span><\/p>\nWhat are autoimmune diseases?<\/h2>\n
\n
What are we calling for?<\/h2>\n
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\n
Our champion: Wendy D<\/span><\/h2>\n
What have we achieved?<\/h2>\n
We raise awareness through events, media, training and fundraising<\/strong><\/h5>\n
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We take part in consultations, advisory boards and co-production of healthcare<\/strong><\/h5>\n
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We engage directly with policy makers and researchers<\/strong><\/h5>\n
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<\/ul>\n
Related news and blogs<\/h2>\n
Autoimmune disease stories<\/h2>\n
What is autism and other neurodivergences?<\/h2>\n
What are the characteristics?<\/h2>\n
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\n
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How is it diagnosed?<\/h2>\n
What is the treatment?<\/h2>\n
Access needs are addressed by provision of Communication and Hospital Profiles.<\/p>\nAdvocating for yourself or someone else<\/h2>\n
Useful links and documents<\/h2>\n