Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic progressive inflammatory disease leading to functional limitations, affecting physical and mental health.1 The impact of axSpA on work productivity is a matter of great concern to society, since this disease starts early in life, and the subsequent loss of productivity contributes to the important socioeconomic burden of axSpA. Further, for patients themselves, work is a key aspect of impact. In a survey, the most important elements linked to quality of life were financial losses, work capacity, memory/concentration, and activities of daily living.2
In this issue of The Journal of Rheumatology, Inman and colleagues have assessed factors associated with work-related issues in Canadian patients with axSpA.3 In all, 542 Canadian patients who participated in an international survey, the International Map of Axial Spondyloarthritis (IMAS) online survey, were analyzed. A first important finding is that, although the mean age was 44 years, only 53% were employed. This number could be compared to the mean employment rate in Canada, which in 2021 was 61%.4 In the IMAS survey, employment status was associated with lower disease activity and a more favorable overall health status. A second finding is related to difficulties when working. The authors found that 90% of patients who were either employed, unemployed, or …
Address correspondence to Prof. L. Gossec, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Service de Rhumatologie, 47-83 bd de l’hôpital, 75013 Paris, France. Email: laure.gossec{at}aphp.fr.
