A systematic review on the prevalence of, and risk factors for, eating disorders in systemic lupus erythematosus

Systematic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with significant physical and psychological challenges. Case studies have highlighted examples of eating disorders (ED) developing in patients with SLE, but little is known about rates of co-morbidity or reasons for this. This systematic review investigated the prevalence of, and risk factors for, EDs in individuals with SLE. Exploring 21 studies with 3,214 participants, most of which were cross-sectional with small sample sizes, findings indicated a similar prevalence of EDs in SLE populations as in the general population. However, individuals with SLE exhibited increased body image concerns, linked to higher disease activity, disease damage, and depressive symptoms. No studies explored risk factors for other ED symptoms (e.g., restriction, binge eating). This review emphasizes the need for further research to better understand the relationship between SLE and EDs, providing a basis for improved clinical practices and interventions for this population.