The diagnosed prevalent cases of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the seven major markets (7MM*) are projected to increase from 0.55 million in 2021 to 0.58 million in 2031, registering an annual growth rate (AGR) of 0.51%, estimates GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

SLE is a complex multi-system autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own tissues, causing widespread inflammation and tissue damage in the affected organs. Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most serious complications of SLE.

GlobalData’s latest report, ‘Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Lupus Nephritis – Epidemiology Forecast to 2031’, reveals that in 2031, the US will have the highest number of diagnosed prevalent cases of SLE in the 7MM at 0.26 million cases, whereas Italy, with nearly 0.027 million cases, will have the lowest number. The overall increase in the diagnosed prevalence of SLE is mostly driven by population changes, as well as an increase in the diagnosed prevalence of SLE in the US.

Antara Bhattacharya, Senior Epidemiologist at GlobalData, comments: “GlobalData’s research shows that in 2021, 67.6% of diagnosed systemic lupus erythematosus cases were complicated (moderate/severe). Adults ages 40–69 years accounted for approximately 61% of the diagnosed prevalent cases of SLE in the 7MM, while those ages 70 years and older accounted for approximately 20% of the cases in 2021.”

The signs and symptoms of SLE vary considerably from person to person, and overlap with other disorders, making it difficult to diagnose. This often results in late diagnosis or even undiagnosed cases.  SLE occurs more commonly in women compared to men. This is in line with the GlobalData estimates for sex-specific diagnosed prevalent cases.

Bhattacharya concludes: “A higher burden of SLE in the productive age groups and diagnosis in later stages both substantially increase the economic burden of SLE. Therefore, more country-specific epidemiological studies are needed to elucidate the prevalence proportions in the adult population.

“While the therapeutic goals for SLE focus on reducing therapy-related side effects and organ damage, improving the health-related quality-of-life, lifestyle changes, diet and medicine also aid in easing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and controlling flares.”

*7MM: The US, 5EU (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK), and Japan