Abstract:
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by evidence of autoantibodies and multiorgan system involvement leading to significant physical and functional disability. The reported incidence and prevalence of SLE in the US vary by region but are estimated to be approximately 5.5 per 100,000 persons per year and 72.8 per 100,000 persons, respectively. Several social determinants of health, including educational level, health insurance, household income, and social support, as well as environmental and occupational exposures may impact lupus outcomes. The association of race/ethnicity with SLE outcomes has also been reported, with non White minorities experiencing a more severe disease phenotype with increased damage accrual and higher rates of renal involvement when compared to White individuals. The goals of Healthy People 2020, a set of national public health objectives released by the US Department of Health and Human Services, include achieving health equity, eliminating health disparities, and overall improving the health of the nation’s population through collaboration among diverse groups. Socioeconomic inequalities are a common cause of health disparities; therefore, addressing social determinants of health would enable health professionals to enhance prevention approaches and health promotions that reduce health inequities. In this editorial, we highlight several Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) principles and potential applications to address health disparities in SLE...