More than half of males with lupus report feeling depressed, receive little support.

Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York City launched the nationwide survey to assess the needs of male patients and found that 58% reported feeling depressed for several days or more than half the days in the previous two weeks. Regarding support and coping, 52% reported that they received no support. More than 80% of respondents indicated that lupus limited their activities of daily living, mostly due to pain and fatigue.

An 85-question survey was disseminated nationally to males over 18 with lupus. The survey was advertised via online forums, at major hospitals serving lupus patients in New York City and through local and national lupus groups. The survey assessed four core areas: health status and quality of life, health behavior and lifestyle, access to care and interest in programs specifically designed for men. Participants completed the surveys via an online link.

For full results of the research please click here.