Reduced Work Productivity Research Articles

Brachial plexus nerve block versus haematoma block for closed reduction of distal radius fracture in adults: The BLOCK Trial – a protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial

IntroductionDistal radius fractures account for one-fifth of all fractures in the active elderly population and may cause chronic pain, loss of hand function and reduced work productivity, imposing a significant socioeconomic burden. Most are initially treated with closed reduction and casting, but 30% subsequently require surgery due to insufficient realignment. The current approaches for analgesia for closed reduction are suboptimal. A brachial plexus nerve block provides complete pain relief and muscle relaxation distal to the elbow, potentially creating better conditions for realignment of the fractured bone ends. This may ultimately translate into reduced need for surgery and result in better functional outcomes and fewer complications compared to a haematoma block, which is the current standard care in Denmark.Methods and analysisThe BLOCK Trial is an investigator-initiated, parallel-group, allocation-concealed, outcome assessor and analyst-blinded, superiority, randomised, controlled, clinical multicentre trial performed at 11 Danish emergency departments. Eligible adult patients with a distal radius fracture who need closed reduction will be included and allocated 1:1 to either an ultrasound-guided brachial plexus nerve block or a haematoma block. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients with distal radius fracture surgery 90 days after closed reduction. We will include 1716 participants to detect or discard a relative risk reduction of surgery of 20%. Secondary outcomes include treatment-related complications, patient-reported wrist function, pain during closed reduction and proportion of patients with unacceptable radiographic fracture position immediately after closed reduction.Ethics and disseminationfThe trial is approved by the Danish Medicines Agency and the Danish Research Ethics Committees (EU CT number: 2024-512191-35-00). All results will be summarised on www.theblocktrial.com, clinicaltrials.gov and euclinicaltrials.eu after publication. Primary and secondary outcome results from 0 to 90 days will be presented in the main article and submitted to a peer-reviewed journal. Results from outcomes on the 12-month follow-up will be presented separately.Trial registration numberNCT06678438.

Air quality and health risks in chemical supply shops in southeastern Nigeria.

This study assessed the concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in chemical stores at Ogbete Market, Enugu, and Ogbo-ogwu Market, Onitsha, southeastern Nigeria, during the wet season (June to August 2024). Air quality measurements, taken from six randomly selected stores in each market and a control site (clothing store) located at about 900m away, revealed that while concentrations of SO2 and NO2 far exceeded public health guidelines (WHO), they remained below Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) limits. However, chronic low-level exposure, even within OSHA limits, can still lead to respiratory symptoms and reduced work productivity over time, especially in poorly ventilated indoor shops. Sampling was conducted at a height of 2m above ground to reflect the breathing zone of an average adult, with data collected during morning and afternoon sessions to capture fluctuations in market activity. Using the Aeroqual Series 300 gas monitor, real-time results indicated hazardous conditions in many stores, and exposure factor-adjusted air concentrations (EF-AACs) were calculated to assess actual exposure scenarios. Hazard quotients (HQs) for each pollutant showed a concerning risk of respiratory diseases, particularly from SO2 and NO2 exposure, with multiple stores exhibiting HQ values greater than 1. The findings highlight the urgent need for improved ventilation and stricter regulations in these markets, while also contributing to the limited research on air quality in commercial environments in Nigeria. This study lays the foundation for future interventions aimed at protecting the health of workers in informal markets, advancing public health initiatives in regions with underdeveloped regulatory frameworks.

Evaluation of the Relationship Between Anemia and Subjective Symptoms in White-Collar Workers

Introduction: Anemia has been shown to reduce workers’ performance and health. However, the relationship between anemia and subjective symptoms remains poorly understood. This study investigated the prevalence of anemia and subjective symptoms and the association between anemia and subjective symptoms among white-collar workers.Methods: This study analyzed health examination data of Japanese white-collar workers (n= 103,530) from April 2023 to March 2024. The prevalence of three subjective symptoms, dizziness, palpitation/dyspnea, and edema, was compared among three categories without anemia (i.e., male hemoglobin value: 13 g/dL or female hemoglobin value: 12 g/dL), mild anemia (i.e., male hemoglobin value: 12-12.9 g/dL or female hemoglobin value: 11-11.9 g/dL), and moderate or severe anemia (i.e., male hemoglobin value: <12 g/dL or female hemoglobin value: <11 g/dL). To examine the association between anemia and three subjective symptoms, we performed multivariate logistic regression analysis with the presence or absence of subjective symptoms as the dependent variable. Additionally, a sex-based subgroup analysis was conducted.Results: Among the participants, 5.1% had mild anemia, while 1.8% had moderate or severe anemia. Dizziness, palpitation/dyspnea, and edema were reported by 4.5%, 3.2%, and 7.4%, respectively. Anemia was significantly associated with all three subjective symptoms. Regarding dizziness, the multivariate odds ratio (OR) of mild anemia (OR: 1.28, 95%confidence interval, CI: 1.14-1.42) and moderate or severe anemia (OR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.33-1.84) were >1. For palpitation and dyspnea, the multivariate OR of mild anemia (OR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.05-1.39) and moderate or severe anemia (OR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.44-2.11) were >1. Regarding edema, the multivariate OR of mild anemia (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.09-1.30) and moderate or severe anemia (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.09-1.43) were >1.Conclusions:Anemia was associated with the three subjective symptoms even in mild conditions. These results may contribute to reduced work productivity, particularly through presenteeism and absenteeism. The study findings highlight the importance of early detection and treatment through health checkups, dietary interventions, and iron supplementation.

Reduced Work Productivity (presenteeism) Among Japanese Workers With Asthma or Respiratory Symptoms: The Japanese Red Cross Kumamoto Study

Reduced Work Productivity (presenteeism) Among Japanese Workers With Asthma or Respiratory Symptoms: The Japanese Red Cross Kumamoto Study

Real-world cross-sectional study evaluating patient characteristics, disease burden, and treatment approaches in people with obesity disease in Japan

Aim To describe clinical characteristics, disease burden, and treatment patterns among people with obesity disease (PwOD) in Japan, using data from the Adelphi Real World Obesity Disease Specific Programme™ (DSP). Methods Secondary data from the Japanese DSP cohort (July to December 2022) were analyzed. PwOD had a BMI ≥25 kg/m2 and ≥1 obesity-related complications (ORCs). Outcomes were summarized for all PwOD or stratified by obesity class (BMI ≥25–<35 or ≥35 kg/m2 [high-degree obesity disease]) and use of anti-obesity medications (AOMs). Results The study included 442 PwOD (mean age: 52.8 years; 54.8% males; BMI ≥25–<35 kg/m2: 64.5%; BMI ≥35 kg/m2: 35.5%; AOM users: n = 228; non-AOM users: n = 214). High-degree obesity disease was associated with worsened SF-36v2 scores (Physical Component Summary, Physical Functioning, Bodily Pain, and General Health), greater activity impairment, and reduced work productivity. Common weight management approaches were diet (79.9%) and exercise (51.1%). Common prescription AOMs included traditional herbal medicine (67.5%) and mazindol (21.1%). People with high-degree obesity disease (BMI ≥35 vs. ≥25–<35 kg/m2) used more prescription AOMs (57.3 vs. 48.4%), behavioral therapy (9.6 vs. 1.8%), and weight loss surgery (2.6 vs. 0.4%). The difference in weight reduction between AOM and non-AOM users was modest. Conclusions People with high-degree obesity disease experienced greater disease burden. Diet and exercise are common for weight management, while behavioral therapy is less frequently implemented. These findings highlight the challenges and unmet medical needs in treating obesity in Japan and could inform better treatment strategies in Japan and globally among the Asian population.

The Impact of Unilateral Severe-to-Profound Hearing Loss on Work Productivity and the Need for Recovery After Work.

The aim of the study was to investigate work productivity and need for recovery in patients with unilateral severe-to-profound hearing loss (UHL). This study assessed work productivity, need for recovery after work and risk for long-term sick leave in patients on sick leave with the use of validated questionnaires among 50 adults with UHL. Two cognitive tests were conducted to investigate the potential effects of cognitive functioning on work productivity. Patients with UHL reported reduced work productivity and increased need for recovery after work, with these outcomes being higher than those reported by healthy controls in previous studies. The impact of UHL on cognitive functioning was limited. UHL seems to affect work productivity and need for recovery after work. Further research is required to corroborate these findings and assess the effectiveness of rehabilitation.

ColdZyme® reduces viral load and upper respiratory tract infection duration and protects airway epithelia from infection with human rhinoviruses.

Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) has a significant economic and social impact and is a major factor compromising athletes' training and competition. The effects of ColdZyme® Mouth Spray on URTI were investigated using an in vivo study in athletes, combined with a novel in vitro air-liquid interface human airway model. Endurance athletes were randomised to ColdZyme (n=78) or placebo (n=76) and monitored over 3months. They completed daily symptom and training logs and collected throat swabs over 7days during perceived URTI. In vitro studies examined rhinovirus infectivity and epithelial barrier integrity of airway epithelial cells. Eighty-two in vivo episodes were analysed with significantly lower (P=0.012) episode duration in the ColdZyme vs. Placebo group (mean ± SD, 6.2 ± 2.6, (median [interquartile range]) 5.5 [4-9] days vs. 10.7 ± 10.2, 7.0 [5-11]). There was no difference in incidence (P=0.149). Training absence and symptom ratings were lower (P<0.05) in the ColdZyme group. Swabs were returned for 50 episodes, with at least one pathogen detected in all (rhinovirus was most abundant). Absolute quantification (qPCR) for rhinovirus revealed a significantly lower 7-day area under the curve in ColdZyme vs. placebo (median reduction, 94%, P=0.029). In vitro, viral load was significantly lower (median reductions 80-100%), and epithelial barrier integrity better maintained, and no virus was detected by immunofluorescence analyses of pseudostratified epithelia, with ColdZyme treatment (all P< 0.05). ColdZyme is beneficial for reducing URTI duration, symptom ratings and missed training days. These novel data suggest that the mechanisms involve the protection of epithelial cells against rhinovirus infection and damage. KEY POINTS: Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are a common complaint in the general population and athletes alike, with social, well-being and economic consequences, including performance detriments in athletes and reduced work productivity in the general population. Strategies to minimise the risk of contracting a URTI and/or reduce the time taken to clear an infection are desirable to athletes and the general population alike. The present study employed an in vivo study with athletes in combination with a novel in vitro human airway cell model to examine the effects of ColdZyme Mouth Spray on URTI and viral infectivity. The duration for which URTI symptoms persisted was lower with ColdZyme treatment, which also resulted in fewer training absence days. Swabs from participants in the in vivo study and supernatants from the in vitro studies showed lower rhinovirus viral load with ColdZyme treatment compared with placebo or control.

FACTOR RELATED FATIGUE IN OIL AND GAS WORKER: LITERATURE REVIEW

Oil and gas workers are faced with environmental conditions that are at risk of experiencing work fatigue. The perceived work fatigue has an impact on reducing the level of work concentration, if this condition is left unchecked it will increase the risk of work accidents. This research aims to determine the factors associated with work fatigue in oil and gas workers. This research aims to determine the factors associated with work fatigue in oil and gas workers. Research methods used in literature review with the PRISMA approach (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses). In the journal search carried out on a database google scholar and ScienceDirect with the keywords "work fatigue” and “Oil and gas Industry Workers”. A total of 806 journals were identified, but 6 journals met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Based on 6 journals that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, it was found that the factors that influence work fatigue felt by workers are: work related factors (shift work, ergonomic, workload, night shift, noise, heat stress) And individual factors (sleep quality, motivation, respiratory rate, blood pressure). The impact of work fatigue felt by workers increases the risk of work accidents and reduces work productivity. It can be concluded that the factors related to work fatigue are work-related factor and individual factor.

Presenteeism in people with previous and current epilepsy: Determinants and psychosocial associations.

Presenteeism in people with previous and current epilepsy: Determinants and psychosocial associations.

Autophagy activation alleviates annulus fibrosus degeneration via the miR-2355-5p/mTOR pathway

BackgroundIntervertebral disc degeneration disease (IVDD) is a major cause of disability and reduced work productivity worldwide. Annulus fibrosus degeneration is a key contributor to IVDD, yet its mechanisms remain poorly understood. Autophagy, a vital process for cellular homeostasis, involves the lysosomal degradation of cytoplasmic proteins and organelles. This study aimed to investigate the role of autophagy in IVDD using a hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced model of rat annulus fibrosus cells (AFCs).MethodsAFCs were exposed to H2O2 to model oxidative stress-induced degeneration. Protein expression levels of collagen I, collagen II, MMP3, and MMP13 were quantified. GEO database analysis identified alterations in miR-2355-5p expression, and its regulatory role on the mTOR pathway and autophagy was assessed. Statistical tests were used to evaluate changes in protein expression and pathway activation.ResultsH2O2 exposure reduced collagen I and collagen II expression to approximately 50% of baseline levels, while MMP3 and MMP13 expression increased twofold. Activation of autophagy restored collagen I and II expression and decreased MMP3 and MMP13 levels. GEO analysis revealed significant alterations in miR-2355-5p expression, confirming its role in regulating the mTOR pathway and autophagy.ConclusionsAutophagy, mediated by the miR-2355-5p/mTOR pathway, plays a protective role in AFCs degeneration. These findings suggest a potential therapeutic target for mitigating IVDD progression.

Exploring the Impact of Obesity and Insomnia on Work Productivity: Insights for Occupational Health and Sustainability in the Workplace

Background: The prevalence of obesity and sleep disorders within the Italian workforce mirrors a global trend where sedentary lifestyles, poor eating habits, and elevated stress levels significantly contribute to these health issues. These conditions have profound economic implications, including rising healthcare costs and diminished productivity due to absenteeism and presenteeism, adversely affecting organizational sustainability and employee well-being. Addressing these problems necessitates a holistic approach that integrates individual health interventions, workplace policies, and broader societal changes to promote healthy lifestyles. This cross-sectional study examines the influence of obesity and insomnia, both individually and combined, on work productivity within the context of occupational health and sustainability. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted with 397 participants from various professions over a six-month period. Self-reported work productivity impairments were assessed using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) questionnaire. Body Mass Index (BMI) and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) scores were utilized to evaluate obesity and insomnia levels, respectively. Results: Statistical analyses revealed a significant association of higher BMI and ISI scores with reduced work productivity. Both obesity and insomnia independently and synergistically contributed to productivity losses, with obesity exerting a more substantial effect. These findings indicate that obesity and insomnia increase presenteeism, thereby negatively impacting organizational performance and workplace sustainability. Conclusions: Our study underscores the critical impact of obesity and insomnia on work productivity and highlights the necessity of addressing these health issues not only for individual well-being but also for organizational sustainability. Integrating targeted health management strategies within workplaces to address these conditions can enhance productivity, improve employee well-being, and promote occupational health and safety. These interventions align with the current concept of sustainable work and are essential steps toward achieving sustainability in the workplace.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, and Related Factors among a Sample of Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome Attending Al-Imamain Al-Kadhimain Medical City in 2023

Abstract Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder seen in both primary and secondary care. It is a major socioeconomic burden because affected patients use more health-care resources with reduced work productivity when compared to the healthy population. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of IBS patients and to assess some sociodemographic factors that may related to these variables. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Gastroenterology Clinic and Internal Medicine clinic at Al-Imamain Al-Kadhimain Medical City in Baghdad/Iraq during the period from April 1, 2023, to August 31, 2023. All patients 18 years and older diagnosed with IBS were included in the study. A total of 280 patients participated in the study. Data were collected through a face-to-face interview with the patients using a standardized questionnaire with some modifications. Results: The average participant age was 39.61 ± 14.77 years, with most (72.1%) falling between 18 and 45 years, and 65.7% reported having a family history of IBS. The results show that 171 patients (61%) had an acceptable level of knowledge score. Two hundred and sixty-six patients (95%) acknowledged the role of stress and anxiety in IBS, and most participants (92.5%) knew the importance of immediate medical attention for serious symptoms. Education plays a pivotal role (P = 0.0001). Higher education correlates with excellent knowledge, Illiterates mostly have poor knowledge. One hundred and seventy-eight patients (64%) had positive attitude. One hundred and sixty-nine patients (60%) had bad practice. One hundred and ninety-five patients (69.6%) avoid certain foods that are known to trigger IBS symptoms, and 157 patients (56.1%) reported adequate sleep. Conclusions: The majority of IBS patients had an acceptable level of knowledge, positive attitude, and bad practice. Most of them know that managing anxiety and changing diet can improve IBS symptoms.

From Symptoms to Satisfaction: Optimizing Patient-Centered Care in Dry Eye Disease

Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial, chronic, and often relapsing condition with a significant impact on patient quality of life (QoL). Symptoms such as ocular discomfort and visual disturbances are diverse and frequently misaligned with objective clinical signs, complicating diagnosis and management. DED not only interferes with daily activities like reading, driving, and computer use but also imposes a substantial economic burden due to direct healthcare costs and reduced work productivity. Beyond its ocular manifestations, DED has been associated with higher prevalence rates of depression and anxiety, with a complex bidirectional relationship. Patients with DED may experience psychological distress that exacerbates symptoms, leading to a vicious cycle that further impairs QoL. This underscores the importance of integrating mental health screening into the management of DED, particularly for high-risk populations. Optimizing the care of DED patients requires empathy, effective communication, and the establishment of a therapeutic alliance that acknowledges patient experiences and involves them in personalized treatment plans. Such an approach can improve patient satisfaction, enhance treatment adherence, and address both ocular and psychological dimensions of the disease. This paper highlights current evidence on the impact of DED symptoms and its association with mental health and recommends strategies to improve clinical management through a patient-centered approach.

THE FORTITUDE FACTOR FOR CAREGIVERS: UNDERSTANDING THE EFFECT OF EMPLOYMENT AND CAREGIVING ON CAREGIVER WELLBEING

Abstract Shifting support services from community-based facilities to home-based settings has highlighted the dual roles of family/friend caregivers. This study investigated challenges experienced by caregivers of vulnerable adults in one east coast state. A convenience sample (N= 2,129) of caregivers, recruited through state and local agencies, completed an anonymous online survey to enhance understanding of caregiving experiences, challenges, and service utilization patterns. This paper focused on employed caregivers who reported greater service utilization than caregivers who were not employed. Within employed caregivers, we found they made workplace compromises to balance caregiving responsibilities including: going in late, taking a less demanding job, taking a leave of absence, and going from full to part-time work. There were positive associations between the number of compromises made in the workplace with caregiver-reported stress levels, financial strain, and service utilization. To address these challenges, employed caregivers reported using various coping strategies including exercise, mental health support, spiritual practice, hobbies, and support groups. Employer support to caregivers included: flexible hours, remote work options, paid sick days, paid family leave, referral/counseling supports, and unpaid family leave. Mixed results were found for relationships between employer supports and caregiver compromises, stress levels and financial strain. Research shows that multiple demands on employees can reduce worker productivity and efficiency. Responding to trends indicating an increase of informal caregivers in the workforce, this study highlights the needed support to promote caregiver resilience and their ability to remain employed. Implications for employers, community agencies, and government systems will be discussed.

Elevated circulating homocysteine concentrations delayed nerve conduction velocity and increase the risk of diabetic kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes.

China has the largest population of individuals with diabetes, and the prevalence of various complications among patients with type 2 diabetes remains high. Diabetic nephropathy affects approximately 20% to 40% of diabetic patients, becoming a major cause of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. Furthermore, around 50% of patients develop diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), which is closely associated with physical disability, increased healthcare costs, and reduced work productivity. There is an urgent need for novel strategies in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment to improve patient outcomes. In this study, 163 patients with type 2 diabetes were selected as the observation group and further divided into three subgroups based on homocysteine (HCY) levels. The study measured several clinical parameters, including homocysteine, blood glucose, blood lipids, glycated hemoglobin, urinary microalbumin, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR), electromyography, and highly-sensitive C-reactive protein (CRP), among others. The levels of these indicators were analyzed and compared across the subgroups. The results revealed significant differences in uric acid, creatinine, urinary microalbumin, urinary ACR, and nerve conduction velocity (right tibial nerve sensory conduction) among different HCY levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (P < 0.05). Linear regression analysis indicated that homocysteine levels were associated with systolic blood pressure, glycated hemoglobin, fasting C-peptide, uric acid, creatinine, urinary microalbumin, and nerve conduction velocity (including motor conduction velocity of the ulnar nerve and sensory conduction velocity of the sural nerve). The clinical assessment of homocysteine in diabetic patients holds significant importance in the prevention of microvascular complications. Lowering HCY levels may offer a promising therapeutic approach for managing microvascular disease in diabetes.

Using a computational cognitive model to simulate the effects of personal and social network experiences on seasonal influenza vaccination decisions

IntroductionSeasonal influenza poses significant societal costs, including illness, mortality, and reduced work productivity. Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for preventing the disease, yet vaccination rates in the United States fall below 50% for adults. Understanding the factors influencing vaccination decisions is crucial for designing interventions to improve uptake. This study investigates how personal experiences and the experiences of social contacts affect individual decisions to get vaccinated against influenza.MethodsA multi-year longitudinal survey study was conducted to examine the impact of personal and social network experiences on vaccination decisions. Participants' vaccination behaviors and experiences with influenza were tracked over time. To model these influences, we developed a memory-based vaccination decision model using the Adaptive Control of Thought – Rational (ACT-R) integrated cognitive architecture, which incorporates cognitive processes associated with memory and decision-making.ResultsThe survey results demonstrated that both personal experiences with influenza and the experiences of close social contacts significantly influenced vaccination decisions. The memory-based model, built within the ACT-R framework, effectively captured these effects, providing a computational representation of how personal and social factors contribute to vaccination behaviors.DiscussionThe findings suggest that personal and social experiences play a critical role in shaping vaccination decisions, which can inform the development of targeted interventions to increase vaccination uptake. By incorporating cognitive processes into the model, we identified potential strategies to enhance vaccine promotion efforts, such as recalling past experiences with illness to motivate individuals to get vaccinated.

Karakteristik Pasien Dermatitis Kontak (Iritan dan Alergi) di Puskesmas Tarowang Kabupaten Jeneponto Provinsi Sulawesi Selatan Tahun 2022-2023

Contact dermatitis is a general term for an acute or chronic inflammatory reaction to a substance that stimulates the skin. This disease can cause work discomfort and reduce worker productivity. Women, babies, the elderly, and those with atopic tendencies are more susceptible to irritant contact dermatitis, while allergic contact dermatitis has risks including age, occupation, and a history of atopic dermatitis. The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of contact dermatitis patients (irritants and allergies) at the Tarowang Community Health Center, Jeneponto Regency in 2022-2023. This research is a quantitative descriptive study with a research sample of all patients diagnosed with contact dermatitis (irritant and allergic) at the Tarowang Community Health Center and 455 samples were obtained from medical record data. The results of this study show that the incidence of DKA is greater than DKI at the Tarowang Community Health Center in 2022-2023 with the general occupational characteristics of DKI patients being housewives while DKA are fishermen in the 26-45 year age category with the highest number of lesion locations on the hands of this type. The most common gender is female and the therapy used in DKI patients is an antihistamine type cetrizine while in DKA it is an antihistamine type mebihydroline napadisylate.

The Connection Between Dermatology and Joint Medicine: Exploring Skin and Joint Disorders

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic, systemic disease marked by joint and skin inflammation, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. This study aims to assess outcomes related to skin and joint disorders in PsA patients. Data were collected from 75 patients in various hospitals across Iraq between February 2023 and August 2024. Clinical outcomes, the EuroQol questionnaire (EQ-5D), Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease (PsAID12), and the Work Productivity and Impairment Index (WPAI) were used to evaluate health status. Results showed that PsA primarily affects patients aged 56-65, with males (41) slightly outnumbering females (34). Obesity was prevalent in 30.67% of cases. Pain, fatigue, and skin issues were the most common symptoms. Pain scores averaged 17.64 ± 16.86 for skin and 25.36 ± 22.10 for joints. EQ-5D utility scores were 0.80 ± 0.16, and PsAID12 scores were 2.96 ± 1.97. The study concludes that PsA patients experience poor health outcomes, low quality of life, and reduced work productivity.

Is a 1-year course of methotrexate in patients with arthralgia at-risk for rheumatoid arthritis cost-effective? A cost-effectiveness analysis of the randomised, placebo-controlled TREAT EARLIER trial

ObjectivesRheumatoid arthritis (RA) has a considerable disease burden with life-long physical limitations, reduced work productivity and high societal costs. Trials on arthralgia at-risk for RA are therefore conducted, aiming to...

Diabetes Mellitus and its Association with Work Patterns and Characteristics: A Narrative Review.

Diabetes mellitus is a leading cause of disability with adverse effects on the quality of life. It also affects occupational health by impacting several work-related parameters. This review discusses the relationship between diabetes and absenteeism, presenteeism, work impairment and unemployment. The association between work and diabetic complications such as neuropathic pain, diabetic foot, psychological issues and hypoglycemia due to treatment is also examined. Evidence points to a relationship between diabetes and absenteeism, reduced work productivity, and, thus, overall work impairment. A stronger negative impact on work performance is mediated by painful diabetic neuropathy and diabetic foot. In addition, psychological distress has been positively correlated with total workdays lost and frequency of absence. Depression in the diabetic population has also been linked with increased absenteeism, presenteeism, and work disability. Moreover, hypoglycaemia induced by antidiabetic medication may affect work attendance and performance. Finally, diabetes has been associated with inequality in the work environment, lower job satisfaction and higher unemployment rates, mainly because of its complications.