Comparative Study for Pattern of Social Support among Systemic Lupus Erythematous Patients' at Out-patient Clinics, Assiut University Hospital

People with Systemic Lupus Erythematous need for social support more than others due to Systemic Lupus Erythematous' often caused severe and unpredictable symptoms; also can be affected multiple system. The study aimed to determine the pattern of Social support among Systemic Lupus Erythematous patients; also to identify the risk factors among Systemic Lupus Erythematous patients at out-patient clinics, Assiut university hospital. Patients and methods: The study was conducted in Rheumatology clinic at Assiut university hospital. The total sample size was (104); total coverage technique used in this study. Tools: Two tools were used, first tool: A structured interview questionnaire sheet which included two parts; demographic data and questions regarding risk factors and the second tool; it included Social Support Assessment scale. Results: more than half (55.8%) of patients had high level of social support after disease compared to 39.4% of them had moderate and high level of social support before disease also, Sunlight exposure was the most risk factors among Systemic Lupus Erythematous patients. Conclusion: there was statistically significant differences between total score of social support before and after disease (P value=0.001*). Recommendation: Health education about rheumatologic services for community to early detection, diagnosis and treatment.