How Socioeconomic Status Impacts Autoimmune Hepatitis
By Craig Lammert, M.D., AIHA Executive Director
Quality of Life Differences in AIH
Over the past decade, researchers have shown that people with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) often face a lower quality of life. This challenge extends beyond physical health. It also reflects social, financial, and emotional struggles.
Studies now show that outcomes differ among AIH patients based on race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. In other words, where someone lives, their income, and their access to healthcare all make a difference.
Disparities Among Patient Groups
Black and Hispanic patients with AIH, as well as families with lower incomes, face worse outcomes. They experience higher hospitalization rates and poorer results after liver transplantation.
These gaps may result from unmet health-related needs. Patients often struggle to find support or access services that could improve their health. Understanding these needs is essential. Addressing them can help improve outcomes for all people living with AIH.
Study Explores the Role of Socioeconomic Status
A new study, completed in collaboration with the Autoimmune Hepatitis Association, explored how socioeconomic factors affect patients’ needs. Researchers used member responses to identify gaps in support.
They used a digital tool called the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patient Needs Questionnaire. Although originally designed for lupus patients, it helped measure needs among those with AIH. Researchers compared patients with low versus moderate-high needs across several categories.
Who Participated in the Study
The study included 410 people with AIH. Among them, 111 participants (about 26%) fell into the low socioeconomic group.
This group included anyone reporting at least one of the following:
- Annual household income below $30,000
- High school education or less
- Medicaid or self-pay insurance
- Ongoing concerns about transportation, food, or housing
- Difficulty paying living expenses within the past year
Key Findings
The study uncovered several important trends:
- High levels of unmet health needs and reduced quality of life were common in all groups.
- Low socioeconomic status predicted even more challenges and poorer quality of life.
- These patients were up to three times more likely to report moderate-to-high needs.
- The most common unmet needs were health information (71.8%) and health services (73.4%).
Moving Toward Change
The authors believe it’s time to address these unmet needs directly. Doing so could improve care and quality of life for all AIH patients. Partnerships with nonprofit organizations like the Autoimmune Hepatitis Association can help close these gaps. Together, researchers, providers, and advocacy groups can create meaningful, lasting change.
Join the Autoimmune Hepatitis Association
Learn more about topics like the socioeconomic status and autoimmune hepatitis and other aspects of living with AIH. Become a member of the Autoimmune Hepatitis Association to connect with others who understand your journey. Stay informed with the latest research updates and gain early access to educational content and event tickets.
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