Autoimmune diseases are a significant health concern for many individuals, affecting approximately 24 million people in the United States alone (National Institutes of Health, 2019). Of these, a staggering 80% are women (Office on Women's Health, 2021). This disproportionate impact on women has prompted researchers to explore the reasons behind this phenomenon, including the role of genetic, epigenetic, hormonal, emotional, and environmental factors.
The Gender Disparity in Autoimmune Diseases and Medicine’s Findings
Genetic Factors: Women have two X chromosomes, which can increase the likelihood of genetic mutations and autoimmune diseases. Additionally, the X-linked genes can influence the immune system, making women more susceptible to autoimmune disorders (Chang et al., 2024).
Hormonal Factors: Estrogen and progesterone, hormones that fluctuate throughout a woman's menstrual cycle and life stages, can impact the immune system. These fluctuations may contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases in women (Vijayanand, 2021).
Environmental Factors: Stress, diet, and exposure to toxins can all contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases. Women often face unique stressors, such as societal pressures and gender-based discrimination, which can exacerbate the risk of developing an autoimmune condition (Wherry, 2024).
Addressing Fear, Limiting Beliefs, and Historical Pressures
Not only to effectively manage autoimmune diseases, it is essential to consider the emotional and psychological aspects that may contribute to the development and exacerbation of these conditions. Fear, limiting beliefs, and historical pressures can all impact the immune system and contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases.
Fear: Fear can lead to chronic stress, which can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of developing an autoimmune disease (Rountree, 2021).
Limiting Beliefs: Negative self-perception and limiting beliefs can contribute to a negative mindset, which can exacerbate autoimmune symptoms (Cañas-González et al., 2021).
Historical Pressures: Societal and cultural expectations can create additional stress and pressure for women, which can impact their immune system and contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases (Office on Women's Health, 2021).
Remission and the Energetic Component of Illness
Remission is a term used to describe a period of time when the symptoms of a disease are reduced or absent. However, the term itself can create fear and uncertainty, as it implies the potential for the disease to return. To address this, it is essential to consider the energetic component of illness, which acknowledges the role of emotions, thoughts, and beliefs in the development and management of autoimmune diseases.
Spiritual Tools for Healing
Mindfulness, Yoga, Prayer, and Meditation: Mindfulness practices can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Meditation can also help individuals connect with their inner selves and develop a more positive faithful mindset (Rountree, 2021).
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT): EFT, also known as "tapping," is a technique that involves tapping on specific points on the body while focusing on a particular emotion or issue. This practice can help release negative emotions and promote healing (Cañas-González et al., 2021).
Bioenergetics: Energy healing modalities, such as massage, acupuncture, can help balance the body's energy and promote healing. These practices can also help address the energetic component of illness and support the body's natural healing processes (Cañas-González et al., 2021).
Conclusion
Autoimmune diseases disproportionately affect women, and understanding the reasons behind this gender disparity is crucial for developing effective treatments. Beyond this- if we can research, study, and help support woman in the ways in which the female body expresses itself we may be able to eliminate or reduce onset on autoimmunity. Women tend to be emotional beings attuned to nature and the sense of our body. It is time we cultivate a culture of woman’s health. References
Chang, H., et al. (2024). Why Women Are at Greater Risk of Autoimmune Disease: Insights from X-Chromosome Inactivation. Cell, 187(3), 453-466.
Cañas-González, B., Fernández-Nistal, A., Ramírez, J. M., & Martínez-Fernández, V. (2021). Influence of stress and depression on the immune system in patients evaluated in an anti-aging unit. Journal of the American Medical Association, 319(23), 2388-2400.
Office on Women's Health. (2021). Autoimmune diseases. Retrieved from
Rountree, R. (2021). The impact of stress on the immune system and chronic illness. IFM Education.
Vijayanand, P. (2021). Understanding the Psychoemotional Roots of Immune Disease. Institute for Functional Medicine.
Wherry, E. J. (2024). The role of X-chromosome inactivation in autoimmune disease. Nature Immunology, 25(4), 456-464.
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