Challenges of ethnicity in SLE

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and has a huge impact on patients' well-being. The disease occurs worldwide and is particularly common in patients of African descent in Europe and North America and in those of Asian origin. Patients often require therapies for prolonged periods of time. The outcome of the disease is dependent on early diagnosis and treatment, and, most importantly, patients' willingness to accept the diagnosis and the need to adhere to advice about therapy. It is important to understand patients' beliefs and perceptions about the disease and its therapy, which are influenced by their ethnic background, as this is likely to influence adherence and outcome. Further research is required to identify the best approaches to improve patients' understanding about lupus and its treatments and to show that improving adherence does indeed improve long-term outcomes.