Abstract
ObjectivesThe impact of physical disability in multiple sclerosis on employment is well documented, but the effect of neurological symptoms has been less well studied. We investigated the independent effect of self-reported fatigue and cognitive difficulties on work.
MethodsIn a large European cost of illness survey, self-reported fatigue, subjective cognitive impairment (SCI) and productivity at work were assessed with visual analogue scales (VAS 0-10). The analysis controlled for country, age, age at diagnosis, gender, education and physical disability.
ResultsA total of 13,796 patients were of working age and 6598 were working. Physical disability had a powerful impact on the probability of working, as did education. The probability of working was reduced by 8.7% and 4.4% for each point increase on the VAS for SCI and fatigue, respectively (p<0.0001). Regular work hours decreased linearly with increasing severity of fatigue and cognitive problems, while sick leave during the 3 months preceding the assessment increased. Finally, the severity of both symptoms was associated with the level at which productivity at work was affected (p<0.0001).
ConclusionOur results confirm the independent contribution of self-reported fatigue and subjective cognitive impairment on work capacity and highlight the importance of assessment in clinical practice.
MethodsIn a large European cost of illness survey, self-reported fatigue, subjective cognitive impairment (SCI) and productivity at work were assessed with visual analogue scales (VAS 0-10). The analysis controlled for country, age, age at diagnosis, gender, education and physical disability.
ResultsA total of 13,796 patients were of working age and 6598 were working. Physical disability had a powerful impact on the probability of working, as did education. The probability of working was reduced by 8.7% and 4.4% for each point increase on the VAS for SCI and fatigue, respectively (p<0.0001). Regular work hours decreased linearly with increasing severity of fatigue and cognitive problems, while sick leave during the 3 months preceding the assessment increased. Finally, the severity of both symptoms was associated with the level at which productivity at work was affected (p<0.0001).
ConclusionOur results confirm the independent contribution of self-reported fatigue and subjective cognitive impairment on work capacity and highlight the importance of assessment in clinical practice.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 740-749 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| Journal | Multiple Sclerosis Journal |
| Volume | 25 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| Early online date | 17 Apr 2018 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Apr 2019 |