Selena Gomez Opens Up About Arthritis Diagnosis, Connecting It to Long-Term Lupus Battle
Los Angeles, CA – In a candid conversation on the “Good Hang” podcast with Amy Poehler, Selena Gomez revealed she’s been diagnosed with arthritis, a condition directly linked to her ongoing battle with lupus. The 33-year-old actress and entrepreneur shared the challenges she faces, even with simple tasks, and how this personal experience is shaping her inclusive beauty brand, Rare Beauty. This breaking news highlights the often-overlooked long-term effects of autoimmune diseases and the importance of accessible product design.
The Struggle with Everyday Tasks & Rare Beauty’s Mission
Gomez recounted a poignant moment before launching Rare Beauty, struggling to open a bottle of water – a seemingly simple act that became difficult due to the arthritis in her fingers. “I remember that before creating the brand I tried to open a bottle of water and hurt me long before starting the proper treatment,” she shared. This experience became a driving force behind Rare Beauty’s commitment to creating products that are easy to use for everyone, particularly those with dexterity issues. “I want to continue evolving and improve in all aspects of my life. I want to experience everything, so it is important to keep myself attentive,” Gomez added, emphasizing her dedication to both personal well-being and inclusive design.
Understanding Lupus and Arthritis: A Complex Connection
Lupus, diagnosed in Gomez in 2013, is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. While lupus can manifest in many ways, arthritis – joint inflammation causing pain, swelling, and stiffness – is a common symptom. However, Gomez’s recent diagnosis signifies the development of arthritis as a separate condition *resulting* from the lupus. The Mayo Clinic explains that arthritis encompasses various conditions, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most prevalent.
Arthritis: Beyond Age – Who is at Risk?
While often associated with aging, arthritis can affect people of all ages, as Gomez’s case demonstrates. The Mayo Clinic reports that arthritis becomes more common and severe with age due to the natural deterioration of bodily functions. However, rheumatoid arthritis, the autoimmune form, disproportionately affects women, with a prevalence reaching up to 5% in women over 65. The lifetime risk of developing any form of arthritis is 3.6% for women and 1.7% for men. Rheumatoid arthritis typically targets the hands, wrists, feet, and knees, causing chronic pain and swelling.
Autoimmune Diseases: When the Body Attacks Itself
Both lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are autoimmune diseases. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, leading to inflammation and damage. This inflammation in the joints, often referred to as “lupus arthritis,” can be debilitating. It’s crucial to understand that while arthritis is a frequent symptom of lupus, Gomez’s diagnosis represents a distinct arthritic condition *caused* by the underlying lupus. Managing lupus effectively can help mitigate the risk of developing secondary conditions like arthritis, but ongoing care and treatment are essential.
Rare Beauty: Inclusivity at its Core
Launched in 2020, Rare Beauty has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. Beyond easy-to-open packaging, the brand champions mental health awareness and challenges unrealistic beauty standards. Gomez’s personal experiences clearly inform the brand’s ethos, creating a space where beauty is defined by self-acceptance and empowerment. This dedication to inclusivity resonates with a growing consumer base seeking brands that prioritize both quality and social responsibility.
Selena Gomez’s openness about her health journey serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by those living with autoimmune diseases. Her advocacy for accessible design and inclusive beauty is not only shaping her brand but also sparking a broader conversation about the importance of considering diverse needs in product development. As Rare Beauty continues to evolve, it’s poised to remain a leader in the beauty industry, driven by a genuine commitment to making beauty accessible to all.
