Understanding systemic lupus erythematosus in the Gullah population
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Gullah Health
This study is trying to learn more about systemic lupus erythematosus in the Gullah community to better understand how genetics and the environment affect this disease.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 750 (estimated) |
| Ages | 2 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Medical University of South Carolina Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Charleston, South Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT00756769 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study focuses on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease that disproportionately affects African Americans, particularly those from the Gullah community in South Carolina and Georgia. The research aims to explore the genetic and environmental factors contributing to the development and progression of SLE in this unique population, which has minimal genetic admixture. Participants will include individuals who self-identify as Gullah and meet specific diagnostic criteria for SLE or are healthy controls. The study seeks to uncover insights that could lead to better understanding and management of SLE in African Americans.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 2 years and older who self-identify as African-American Gullah from the Sea Island region and meet specific diagnostic criteria for SLE.
Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as Black or African-American or those who are unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for systemic lupus erythematosus in African American populations.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on SLE in diverse populations, this approach focusing on the Gullah community's unique genetic background is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 2 years and above; * Self-identified as African-American "Gullah" from the Sea Island region of South Carolina; * Have had at least 4 of the 11 diagnostic criteria for SLE as designated by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), be a relative of a known SLE patient, or be an unrelated healthy Gullah control; * Ability to speak and understand English; * Ability and willingness to give informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Race defined by participant as other than Black or African-American; * Being a prisoner, mentally ill patient, or institutionalized individual; * Unwilling or unable to give informed consent
Where this trial is running
Charleston, South Carolina
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, South Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Diane L. Kamen, MD, MSCR — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Diane L. Kamen, MD, MSCR
- Email: kamend@musc.edu
- Phone: 843-792-4825
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.