Abstract

Background: The aim of this research was to analyze trends in social security applications in Italy as a result of the onset of atrial fibrillation, analyzing data pertaining to the classification of professions and assessing the economic impact on the social security system. Methods: We analyzed all applications for invalidity allowances and invalidity pensions throughout Italy over a 10-year period from 01.01.2009 to 31.12.2019, giving specific attention to all reports indicating atrial fibrillation as the principal diagnosis (Cod. ICD-9-CM 427.31). We then extracted the relative expenditure data for said benefits. The results of all analyses have been collated in tables. Results: Over the period in question, a total of 3468 applications for assistance were filed throughout Italy indicating a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, of which 58% were rejected, 41% qualified for an invalidity allowance, and only 1.1% qualified for a pension. On average, every year, 1100 workers received social security benefits as a result of a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, which equates to an average annual expenditure of EUR 10 million. A comparison of the data from the first observation year (2009) with data from the last (2019) shows a rising trend in the number of beneficiaries and consequently in expenses. Conclusions: The social security assistance provided by the Italian government by means of the National Institute of Social Security is fundamental to social cohesion and to those who are either permanently disabled from working or those with a significantly diminished earning capacity. This assistance is associated with a significant financial cost, which requires careful monitoring.

Highlights

  • Cardiovascular diseases represent one of the most widespread categories of disease in the Western world, diseases that can compromise the health and physical strength, and the working capacity, of those affected [1].Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia in adults, with an estimated prevalence of between 2% to 4%

  • The study analyzes applications for Invalidity Allowance and Invalidity Pensions filed over a 10-year period from 01.01.2009 to 31.12.2019, focusing on all reports that indicate atrial fibrillation as the principal diagnosis

  • Over the period in question, a total of 3468 applications for assistance were filed throughout Italy containing a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (Table 1)

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Summary

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases represent one of the most widespread categories of disease in the Western world, diseases that can compromise the health and physical strength, and the working capacity, of those affected [1]. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia in adults, with an estimated prevalence of between 2% to 4%. A 2.3-fold rise is expected in the coming decades, largely owing to the extended longevity of the general population and intensifying search for undiagnosed AF [2]. AF patients have a five-fold increased risk of ischemic.

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