Rhiju Chakraborty
Research Mentor(s): Rachel Bergmans
Mentor Department: Health Equity Core, Chronic Pain & Fatigue Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology
Authors: Rachel Bergmans, Nikhita Sanghavi , Anushka Patil , Rhiju Chakraborty
Session: Session 5 (2:00pm – 2:50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 104
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) morbidity and mortality is disproportionately worse for Black people. While comprehensive treatment approaches that include pharmacological treatments paired with self-management can improve quality of life with SLE, there is a limited understanding of the health behaviors among Black people with SLE. The goal of this qualitative study was to characterize how Black people with SLE approach physical activity, diet, and sleep. Data came from semi-structured interviews with 30 Black Michigan residents with SLE. We are using an interpretive description design to analyze the de-identified interview transcripts. Our theme development is focused on how people use physical activity, diet, and sleep as part of their health management and how SLE impacts these health behaviors. Currently, we are open-coding transcripts so that we can develop within-person profiles prior to preliminary theme development. We will engage with the University of Michigan Community Advisory Board for Lupus Care and Research to obtain input from the study population as part of our data interpretation. Our preliminary findings highlight how having access to fresh fruits and vegetables and recreational spaces can promote diet quality and physical activity, which positively impact SLE symptom management. However participants facing barriers to physical activity, nutritious diets, and getting sufficient sleep describe worsening of SLE symptoms. Findings from this study will be useful for designing future interventions that promote these health behaviors for symptom management. Prioritizing Black perspectives will ensure that subsequent interventions are accessible and acceptable to those who face inequities in SLE care and research.
