By Hillary Vrba, CDC Team Member
Autoimmune disease impacts approximately 8% of the U.S. population and spans over 140 different conditions. Everything from well-known diseases like fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis and lupus, to the more unfamiliar amyloidosis, hypogammaglobulinemia, and sarcoidosis. Fortunately, autoimmune disease is becoming more widely known, thanks to online creators openly sharing their life with an autoimmune condition.
You Can Still Thrive with a Chronic Condition
Social media influencers and celebrities with autoimmune disease have turned to the internet to share raw and unfiltered perspective of their lives. These creators showcase “day in a life” videos where they take their followers along for doctor’s appointments, provide management advice, share resources, and prove to their viewers you can still thrive with a chronic condition.
The rise of social media platforms like TikTok have made sharing one’s journey easier and has helped to spread awareness to a wider audience. Creators like Lauren Murawski or @eat.glutenfreewithme, who has 6.9 million likes on the platform, candidly opens up about her life living with Celiac Disease, IBS, and Crohn’s Disease. Lauren recently shared with the organization Beyond Celiac that she decided to take her story to social media because she realized there was “a need for a community.” Lauren is just one of hundreds of creators who have made fostering a community their mission.
Instant Access to a Community Living with the Same Condition
Now someone can feel less alone because they have instant access to an entire community of people living with the same condition. Having a community can provide encouragement and strength while helping individuals cope with their illness. In 2025, being diagnosed with any autoimmune disease doesn’t mean you have to fight the condition alone.
Not only do influencers help build community for those with autoimmune disease, but they also help to raise awareness on these conditions, which are often poorly understood by the public. When we increase awareness of autoimmune disease, we help reduce stigma and misinformation. Doing so not only promotes open conversations, but can have a profound impact on social inclusion and overall access to healthcare.
March is Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month
You don’t have to be a social media creator to share your story with autoimmune disease! Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month is the perfect time to educate others on the importance of spreading awareness. Contact your elected leaders and tell them why it’s important to understand autoimmune disease.