Prevalence, sociodemographic characteristics and spatial distribution of systemic lupus erythematosus in France: a nationwide study using health claims data with insights into hydroxychloroquine prescription patterns.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Our primary objective was to estimate an updated prevalence of SLE in France in 2020. We also explore the sociodemographic characteristics of patients with SLE, the social and spatial variability and also study and use hydroxychloroquine prescription patterns as an external validation for case ascertainment.

Methods

We used the French national health data system, which covers almost all of the 67 million people living in France. Prevalent cases were identified among inpatients and people granted a long-term disease status, using the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision code for SLE. Filled prescriptions of hydroxychloroquine were also counted.

Results

In 2020, we identified 54 804 patients with SLE; this corresponds to an overall prevalenc

SUBMITTER: Pouchot J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12306298 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature