Self-management and related factors in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a cross-sectional study

To assess the self-management status of patients with SLE and identify the factors that influence it.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, relapsing autoimmune disease that requires lifelong management. Effective self-management is crucial for reducing disease activity, economic burden, and improving quality of life. However, research on SLE-specific self-management tools and influencing factors remains limited.

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to September 2024, enrolling 370 SLE patients from three tertiary hospitals in Henan Province. Data were collected using validated scales, including self-management, self-efficacy, illness perception, coping styles, family support, and social support. Univariate analyses, correlation analyses, and multiple linear regression were performed.

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to September 2024, enrolling 370 SLE patients from three tertiary hospitals in Henan Province. Data were collected using validated scales, including self-management, self-efficacy, illness perception, coping styles, family support, and social support. Univariate analyses, correlation analyses, and multiple linear regression were performed. Multicollinearity was assessed using variance inflation factors (VIFs) and tolerance values.

Among the 370 SLE patients, the mean age was 38.16 ± 12.81 years; the mean duration of illness was 4.65 ± 3.18 years; Regarding disease activity, 134 SLE patients (36.2%) had no or minimal activity, 116 (31.4%) had mild activity, and 120 (32.4%) had moderate-to-high activity. The mean self-management score was 59.06 ± 16.75, with sub-scores for medication being 9.91 ± 3.45, disease surveillance (10.01 ± 3.56), daily life (29.40 ± 9.35), and reproductive health (9.74 ± 3.84). The key influencing factors included disease activity, education level, marital status, self-efficacy, illness perception, coping styles, family support, and social support, explaining 52.4% of variance.

Tailored interventions should address SLE patients' unique needs by enhancing self-efficacy, optimizing illness perception, promoting positive coping, and strengthening social and family support. This approach can improve self-management, reduce disease burden, and enhance the quality of life.