Reporting of determinants of health inequities and participant characteristics in randomized controlled trials of systemic lupus erythematosus in Canada: A scoping review

Abstract

Objective To report participant characteristics relevant to identifying health inequities in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) randomized controlled trials conducted in Canada. Methods We conducted a scoping review by searching MEDLINE (Ovid) and Embase (1990 to June 2023), and CENTRAL (inception to June 2023). Eligible studies: used an RCT design; evaluated interventions (pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic) among SLE patients aged ≥18 years; and were conducted in Canada. Data extraction was guided by the Campbell and Cochrane Equity Methods Group’s PROGRESS-Plus framework on 11 factors leading to health inequities (Place of residence; Race, culture, ethnicity, and language; Occupation; Gender and sex; Religion; Education; Socioeconomic status; Social capital; Plus: Personal characteristics associated with discrimination; Features of relationships; and Time-dependent relationships). Results Of 1901 unique records, 6 met the inclusion criteria. Sex and age were the only PROGRESS factors that were reported in all studies. The majority of participants were female (84.4% to 100%), and mean ages of participants ranged from 42 to 52.3 years. Place of residence, race, education, and social capital were reported in three studies. Socioeconomic status was reported in two studies, and occupation was reported in one study. Religion, features of relationships, and time-dependent relationships were not reported in any included studies. Conclusion Limited reporting of determinants of health inequities in RCTs for SLE in Canada suggests the need for reporting standards to support equity, diversity, and inclusion practices in research.