DOI: 10.36347/sasjm.2016.v02i06.008

Pages: Page: 161-165

Background: Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the sacroiliac joints and spine, leading to pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. It primarily affects individuals in their most productive years, causing substantial work productivity loss and activity impairment, leading to socioeconomic burden. This study aimed to identify the key determinants of loss of work productivity and activity impairment in individuals with axSpA. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh, from January 2014 to June 2014. A total of 100 patients with axSpA were enrolled in this study. Disease activity was assessed using the BASDAI and ASDAS-CRP, work impairment using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) questionnaire, quality of life using the ASQoL and mental health using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). Statistical analyses included Pearson’s correlation and logistic regression. Results: The mean age was 34.5±8.5 years, with 64% males and 61% unemployed. Peripheral arthritis was present in 73%, sacroiliitis in 95%, and HLA-B27 positivity in 39%. High disease activity (ASDAS-CRP ≥3.5) was the strongest predictor of work productivity loss (OR=18.72, p<0.001). Poor quality of life (r=0.70, p<0.001) and higher mental distress (r=0.69, p<0.001) were significantly associated with work impairment. Unemployed individuals had higher presenteeism (p=0.008) and work productivity losses (p=0.015). Conclusion: AxSpA significantly affects work productivity and daily activities. Early disease management, workplace accommodation and psychological support are essential to improve employment outcomes.