Primary Submission Category: Chronic disease
An exploration of the relationships of physical activity, exercise and sedentary behavior in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Alaa Alawamleh, Deena Aboul-Hassan, Nikhita Mahajan, Brooke Bailey, Johari Summerville, Moriah Ma, Kennedy Ellis, Rachel S. Bergmans, Dominique Kinnett-Hopkins,
Presenting Author: Alaa Alawamleh*
Background: Physical activity (PA) and exercise are modifiable lifestyle behaviors that can help manage symptoms of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). However, a low proportion of SLE patients meet recommended PA guidelines. The barriers to achieving PA guidelines are complex and include the impacts of SLE on exercise and sedentary behavior. Thus, we aimed to explore the relationships among PA, exercise, and sedentary behavior among individuals living with SLE.
Methods: We used a qualitative, interpretive description approach involving semi-structured interviews with adults with SLE. Our interview guide was tailored based on feedback from diverse key informants from the study population. Interviews explored participants’ experiences and understanding of physical activity, exercise, and sedentary behaviors. We conducted an inductive thematic analysis on de-identified transcripts. Theme development focused on understanding how people with SLE engage in these behaviors and opinions of the role of these behaviors in managing lupus.
Results: This study included 31 interviews with participants (100% female, age range = 24 – 65 years). Our analysis identified three key themes: 1) Pain, fatigue, and lupus flares contribute to frustration and inactivity. 2) Insufficient guidance on PA causes uncertainty about appropriate engagement, and 3) Fear of exacerbating symptoms and feelings of guilt over inactivity hinder consistent participation.
Conclusion: Participants with SLE face significant barriers to engaging in physical activity, including symptom-related limitations, and lack of provider guidance. Our results underscore the necessity for consistent support and education on safely engaging in PA and exercise for persons living with SLE.