Representation of Underserved Communities in Non-Pharmacological Axial Spondyloarthritis Trials: A Scoping Review Protocol

Abstract Background To effectively address the challenges of managing Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA), improving quality of life, and reducing healthcare costs, research must consider the influence of social determinants of health and broader contextual factors. These determinants play a fundamental role in shaping individuals’ experiences with AxSpa non-pharmacological interventions. Underserved communities, which often face systemic barriers related to these determinants, may experience disproportionate burdens and reduced access to effective care. Despite this, there remains a limited understanding of which social determinants of health are collected in axSpA research. Objectives This protocol aims to outline the methodology for a scoping review to map and identify how underserved communities and the social determinants of health are represented in axSpA non-pharmacological research. Methods The Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) framework was used to consider the eligibility criteria for including studies, utilising an iterative process during each stage of article selection, data extraction, and reporting. The scoping review will follow the guidance from the JBI. Findings will be reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The PROGRESS-Plus framework will be used to identify and categorise the collected social determinants of health. Potential Impact This review aims to provide an understanding of how social determinants of health are collected in non-pharmacological interventions for axSpA, informing future research priorities and promoting inclusive practices. The findings will be disseminated through research publications, including peer-reviewed articles, conference abstracts and presentations, and plain-language summaries for a broader audience.