The purpose of this study is to understand how exposure to harmful substances during military service may affect the health of Veterans with or without lupus. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems.

We believe that Veterans who were exposed to toxic substances during their military service may develop more harmful antibodies that attack the lining of their blood vessels. These antibodies may contribute to poorer blood vessel and heart health, and could contribute to the development of lupus.

This study aims to improve our understanding of how toxic military exposures may increase the risk of blood vessel complications in Veterans with and without lupus. Ultimately, this research may help identify new ways to better prevent, monitor, or treat cardiovascular disease in this population.

Research procedures for this study will include:

1. The study team will check subject medical records to gather information about medical history and medications being taking. The study team may continue to follow updates in the medical record.
2. Subjects will be given a survey to assess military and occupational toxic inhalant exposures.
3. Subjects will have a brief physical examination during which vitals will be recorded (height, weight, heart rate, respiration, temperature). Women of childbearing ages will be asked for the date of their last menstrual cycle within the past 2 months.
4. Subjects will have blood pressure taken three times three minutes apart.
5. Subjects will then provide a urine sample. Urine collection will occur in a private restroom using a sterile container provided by the study team. For women of childbearing ages, a pregnancy dipstick test will be undertaken on urine to confirm subjects are not pregnant.
6. Subjects will undergo a blood draw where approximately 4 teaspoons of blood will be drawn.