Bhaavna Yalavarthi
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Research Mentor(s): Rachel Bergmans
Co-Presenter: Farahani, Nikki
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain & Fatigue Research Center / Medicine
Presentation Date: April 20
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: Session 5 – 3:40pm – 4:30 pm
Room: League Ballroom
Authors: Rachel Bergmans, Bhaavna Yalavarthi, Nikki Farahani
Presenter: 61
Abstract
Lupus is more common and more severe among Black adults relative to White adults, and these health disparities are driven by systemic racism and social status. To reduce racial disparities in lupus, it is important to prioritize patient experiences and patient-engaged approaches. Benefits of patient-engaged approaches include building on existing community resources; tailoring study outcomes to include those that are meaningful to patient quality of life; increasing patient engagement and retention; and improving the uptake and acceptability of targeted interventions. This study aims to learn more about the experience of adults who are Black or African American (AA) and have lupus, as well as increase representation of people who are Black or AA within lupus care and research. Specific objectives of this study include: describe what strategies and resources are used for managing and coping with lupus symptoms among those who are Black or African American; identify factors that support or hinder the ability to manage and cope with lupus symptoms using nutrition, physical activity, or assistance from health care providers among those who are Black or African American; tailor a web-based self-management resource for lupus that is responsive to the needs and perspectives of adults who identify as Black or African American. In order to meet these objectives, this study uses qualitative research by conducting semi-structured interviews with adults who identify as Black or African American, are diagnosed with lupus, and live in Michigan. These interviews are conducted on Zoom and are recorded. Once approximately 30 interviews are completed, the interviews will be analyzed using a grounded theory approach, which will facilitate the identification of key themes, concepts, and ideas. Based on preliminary data findings, we have noticed trends among participant responses about resources that have provided benefits. Some participants rely heavily on physical activity, nutrition, and spirituality as key resources to help control symptom flares. Others have voiced the value of therapy and community interactions in improving symptom management. Participants have also emphasized a greater need for many of these resources, as they are usually limited to certain communities or individuals. Additionally, improving the quality of urgent care remains an important factor in ensuring Lupus is properly treated. The knowledge gained from this study will inform the development of a self-management tool that prioritizes the needs and perspectives of stakeholders within Black communities and may help reduce lupus-related disparities.
Biomedical Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Interdisciplinary, Public Health, Social Sciences
