AB1248-HPR Work Ability in Patients with Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis: An Explorative and Descriptive Study. (9th June 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Regardt, M.; Welin Henriksson, E.; Sandqvist, J.; Lundberg, I.E.; Schult, M.-L.
• Is Part Of: Annals of the rheumatic diseases. Volume 74(2015)Supplement 2
• Page Start: 1352
• Page End: 1352
• Publication Date: 2015-06-09
• Subjects: Rheumatism -- Periodicals; 616.723005
• DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2015-eular.3793
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-4967

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM) are characterized by muscle weakness which affects activity and participation. Work and leisure are the activities patients with PM/DM perceive as most limited. Previous studies addressing work in terms of how many are employed and degree of sick-leave. No study has investigated the self-rated work ability or how the work environment affects the ability to work in these patients. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the work situation, work ability, work-related risk factors, and influence of the physical and psycho-social work environment in patients with polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM). Methods: Patients with PM/DM were assessed using the Work Ability Index (WAI), and the Work Environment Impact Scale (WEIS). Results: Forty-eight patients (PM n=25 and DM n=23) participated (women/men: 29/19) with a mean age of 54 years (range 28-67 years, SD.10) and mean disease duration of nine years (SD.9). Forty-four percent worked full-time, 31% part-time and 25% were on full-time sick leave. More than 50% self-rated work ability as "poor" or "less good". Physically strenuous work components were present "quite to very often" in 23-79% and more in patients on sick leave ≥2 years. For those working, the interfering factors in the work environment concerned task and time demands. Supporting factors concerned meaning of work, interactions with co-workers and others. Self-rated work ability correlated moderately–highly positive with percentage of full-time employment, work-related risk factors and opportunities and constraints in the work environment. Conclusions: Poor self-rated work ability is common in patients with PM/DM indicating a need to identify interfering risk factors and support patients to enhance work performance. Disclosure of Interest: None declared