Lupus & antiphospholipid syndrome
Recommendations for Improving Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Care From Black Adults: A Qualitative Study
Authors' conclusion
The findings of this qualitative study suggest how limited information about SLE, experiences of racism, treatment regimens, and social risk factors may affect Black people with SLE.
Study context
- Population
- Black adults with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in Michigan (97% women; mean age 41 years, range 18–65)
- Participants
- 30 adults
- Outcome
- Themes on opportunities to improve quality of care and symptom management, from deidentified interview transcripts
Methodological detailsinterpretive description approach, inductive thematic analysis, semistructured interviews, Interviews November 2, 2021, to July 19, 2022; analysis May 6, 2022, to April 12, 2023
- Interpretive description approach
- Inductive thematic analysis
- Semistructured interviews
- Interviews November 2, 2021, to July 19, 2022; analysis May 6, 2022, to April 12, 2023
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
Main themes
- Awareness of SLE signs and symptoms before diagnosis: delays in diagnosis; limited knowledge of SLE in families and communities
- Patient-clinician interactions: discrimination in health care settings; value of coordinated and supportive health care teams
- Medication adherence and health effects: range of adverse effects from SLE medications; monitoring medication use and efficacy could inform tailored care
- Comprehensive care plans after diagnosis: persistent pain and other symptoms despite treatment
- Four main themes identified
Further findings
Disease management
- Participants emphasized the importance of behavioral change and the negative impact of social risk factors
Original publication
Recommendations for Improving Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Care From Black Adults: A Qualitative Study. JAMA Netw Open. Published 2 October 2023. doi:10.
Composed by AI from the published abstract and checked against it. How Briefs are made →