To identify illness perceptions, self-management needs and knowledge priorities of Latinx lupus patients, Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) Gina M. Finzi Memorial Student Summer Fellowship Award winner, Dr. Erica Crosley, surveyed lupus patients in North, South and Central America through the educational Facebook page ‘Hablemos de Lupus’ (‘Let’s Talk about Lupus’).

Similar to other populations, Latinx lupus patients expressed an interest in learning more about fatigue, flares and pain. They also were found to have lower levels of self-efficacy to manage lupus and high levels of illness-related emotional distress. Latin-Americans recently diagnosed with lupus and those lacking social and familial support are especially vulnerable.

These insights will help providers and researchers designing culturally specific interventions better serve the needs of Latin-Americans with lupus, a minority population disproportionately affected by the disease. The findings are one step forward in overcoming health disparities in the Latinx community.

Each year, the Finzi award grant program connects students with leading scientists in the lupus field to advance lupus research and contribute to future therapies, prevention strategies and educational programs. Dr. Crosley’s goal is to be a physician at an academic institution contributing to patient care, teaching and research. Learn more about Dr. Crosley and her research efforts.