Journal of clinical rheumatology : practical reports on rheumatic & musculoskeletal diseases
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The aim of this study was to assess patients' perceived risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 at the peak of the pandemic in NYC in terms of their systemic rheumatic disease and medications. ⋯ Patients' perceived increased risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 was associated with beliefs about their rheumatic disease, medications, comorbidity, and anxiety. Clinicians should be aware of patients' perceptions and foster self-management practices that will alleviate anxiety, minimize exposure to the virus, and optimize systemic rheumatic disease outcomes.