Influence of medical care in the quality of life (WHOQOL-100) of women living with systemic lupus erythematosus

ABSTRACT Lupus requires careful treatment by medical specialists. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of life of patients living with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). The method approached women with a confirmed diagnosis of SLE under medical supervision in a University hospital outpatient clinic or in a private clinic. We used an instrument containing relevant information of the patient and also the Portuguese version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Group (WHOQOL-100) questionnaire. The study population consisted of 39 women, married in their majority (56.4%); prevalently aged 37–60 years old; prevalence of diagnosis time over five years (66.7%); and in use of less than 5 medications (69.2%). 92.3% had the disease inactive with higher means in mobility (p = 0.0463) and quality of life (p = 0.0199) facets; on the other hand, the physical safety and security facet (p = 0.0093) showed higher mean for people with active disease. Health and social care analysis showed availability and quality (p = 0.0434), even when with other associated diseases (33.3%); and the highest means were Dependence on medicinal substances and medical aids (p = 0.0143). The negative results for associated diseases were higher in sexual activity (p = 0.0431) and transportation (p = 0.0319) facets. In conclusion: if women living with SLE receive continuous medical attention, they will enjoy good quality of life, while minimizing the complications inherent in this condition.

Abstract licence: CC BY-NC-ND

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