Abstract
BACKGROUND: Alopecia areata (AA) is a common autoimmune disorder causing non-scarring hair loss. Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have emerged as a promising new treatment approach for AA. This study aimed to investigate the perspectives of Chinese adult AA patients on JAK inhibitor therapy through a qualitative analysis of social media discussions. METHODS: Keyword searches were conducted on two major Chinese social media platforms, Bidu and Sina Weibo, to retrieve AA-related discussion posts within China. A total of 300 posts met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed using natural language processing techniques. All data used in this study were publicly available, anonymized, and obtained without interaction with human subjects, ensuring compliance with ethical standards. High-frequency terms were categorized into four main themes: drug information, efficacy and side effects, shared experiences, and treatment choices. RESULTS: Tofacitinib and baricitinib were the most frequently mentioned JAK inhibitors. Patients' discussions focused on treatment efficacy, relapse after discontinuation, and side effects. Specific attention was given to treatment effects at different time points. The psychological burden and emotional impact of AA emerged as significant themes in patients' shared experiences. Patients' discussions on treatment choices and brand selection reflected their active involvement in decision-making and desire for personalized treatment options. CONCLUSION: This study reveals the significant interest and hope that Chinese adult AA patients have in JAK inhibitor therapy. The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive patient education, individualized risk assessment, and shared decision-making in the management of AA. Understanding patients' perspectives is crucial for developing patient-centered care strategies and improving treatment outcomes. Previous studies have demonstrated the feasibility and value of using social media data to explore patient perceptions and health behaviors in various diseases.