AB1444-HPR Understanding fatigue burden and coping strategies in rheumatoid arthritis using qualitative research. (12th June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, C; Shaw, Y.; Shakley, B.; Ferri, L.; Michaud, K.; McDonald, D.; Simon, T.A.
• Is Part Of: Annals of the rheumatic diseases. Volume 77(2018)Supplement 2
• Page Start: 1854
• Page End: 1855
• Publication Date: 2018-06-12
• Subjects: Rheumatism -- Periodicals; 616.723005
• DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2018-eular.4694
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-4967

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Fatigue is a major symptom of RA but is under-represented when considering an appropriate treatment and in the measurement of disease activity. At the same time, patients' perspectives on fatigue in the overall context of their RA and life have not been studied in detail before. To understand that perspective, we aimed to explore patients' lived experience with RA-related fatigue. Objectives: We explored the narratives of patients with RA and their discourse on RA-related fatigue to assess the burden of disease and coping strategies. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adult patients with RA living in two geographical regions in the United States. Interviewees were asked to discuss their experiences with diagnosis, symptoms, physical and social limitations, coping with challenges, treatment and healthcare providers. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analysed for themes related to the burden of RA-related fatigue and coping strategies. Results: Eighteen patients were interviewed, with ages ranging from 27 to 80 years and RA duration ranging from 4 to 40 years. Four themes emerged around the impact of RA-related fatigue, fatigue in context of RA symptoms, coping strategies and coping success (table 1). Conclusions: Fatigue is a major concern for patients with RA and can be more debilitating than pain. A patient's constant battle with fatigue can have physical, mental and emotional consequences. Disclosure of Interest: C. Zhang Grant/research support from: Bristol-Myers Squibb, Employee of: LIFT1428, Y. Shaw Grant/research support from: Bristol-Myers Squibb, B. Shakley Grant/research support from: Bristol-Myers Squibb, L. Ferri Shareholder of: Bristol-Myers Squibb, Employee of: Bristol-Myers Squibb, K. Michaud Grant/research support from: Bristol-Myers Squibb, Pfizer and Rheumatology Research Foundation, Employee of: University of Nebraska Medical Centre and National Data Bank for Rheumatic Diseases, D. McDonald Grant/research support from: Bristol-Myers Squibb, T. Simon Shareholder of: Bristol-Myers Squibb, Employee of: Bristol-Myers Squibb