ACR Convergence 2025 Sheds Light on Disparities, Age-Related Trends, and Epidemiology in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases Save

At ACR Convergence 2025, new research explored critical disparities and epidemiologic trends shaping outcomes in autoimmune rheumatic diseases across diverse populations and age groups. Studies presented at the meeting highlighted issues ranging from kidney transplant outcomes in lupus to medication disparities in rheumatoid arthritis and demographic patterns in systemic sclerosis and axial spondyloarthritis.

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Rheumatoid Arthritis
A 20-year analysis (Abstract 1707) revealed persistent racial and ethnic disparitie2014 Kidney Allocation System s in kidney transplant outcomes among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), both before and after the revision, underscoring ongoing challenges in equitable care access and outcomes.

Additional findings (Abstract 0478) highlighted racial and ethnic disparities in the receipt of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) by Medicare beneficiaries with late-onset rheumatoid arthritis, indicating gaps in treatment that may contribute to unequal disease control.

Age-Specific Incidence and Clinical Trial Inclusion
A meta-analysis utilizing CDC lupus registry data detailed the age-specific, sex, and race/ethnicity incidence of SLE in the United States, providing valuable insights for targeted awareness and prevention efforts.

A systematic review (Abstract 1072) examined the inclusion of older adults in randomized controlled trials of autoimmune rheumatic diseases, finding underrepresentation that potentially limits application of study results to this growing patient segment.

Mortality and Regional Variations
An updated analysis of systemic sclerosis-related mortality trends in the U.S. from 1999 to 2023 (Abstract 0703) revealed persistent disparities and evolving demographic and regional mortality patterns, informing public health and clinical priorities.

Early axial spondyloarthritis prevalence and regional differences were characterized in Latin America through the multinational ESPALDA registry (Abstract 2336), enriching understanding of disease burden in diverse populations.

These multifaceted studies underscore the urgent need to address disparities and tailor care across demographic groups, highlighting how factors such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, and geographic location can significantly influence health outcomes. By recognizing and responding to these differences, healthcare systems and policymakers can develop more equitable strategies that ensure all individuals receive appropriate, effective, and culturally sensitive care.