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.
Keywords
Systemic lupus erythematosus; Quality of life; Patient care