Black and Hispanic Americans with Lupus Experienced More Severe COVID-19 Outcomes

A new study examined the relationship between race, ethnicity and COVID-19 outcomes in people in the United States with lupus. Researchers found that Black and Hispanic individuals with lupus experienced more severe COVID-19 outcomes, which is consistent with the general U.S. population.

523 people (486 female and 37 males) with lupus and COVID-19 were included in the study. Data showed:

• 74.6% of people were not hospitalized
• 13.3% of people were hospitalized with oxygenation
• 8.3% of people were hospitalized without oxygen
• 3.8% of people died

Black and Hispanic individuals had higher odds of more severe outcomes than White individuals. The researchers note that these results likely reflect health disparities explained by gene-environment interactions as well as social and socioeconomic factors (including poverty, educational level, lack of health insurance). COVID-19 outcomes were associated with comorbidities (other co-occurring illnesses) which are more common or severe in Black and Hispanic populations.

People with inflammatory diseases like lupus should take extra precautions to avoid exposure to the COVID-19 virus since they are more vulnerable to viruses and development of other illnesses. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns and learn more about COVID-19 and lupus.

Read the study