Change and status in quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Current status in quality of life and deterioration retrospectively attributed to the disease by patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were examined. The study group included 169 female and 53 male patients with probable (n = 70), definite (n = 127) and classical RA (n = 25). In a cross-sectional postal survey the participants self-rated their quality of life according to a generic self-assessment package tailored in part for this study. Shortened parallel ratings by significant others were also performed. The impact of RA on quality of life was pervasive. Heaviest intrusion emerged within the physical life sphere and the behavioural and activity domain, followed by the impact on global life satisfaction and habits. Material, psychological and social life domains were less disrupted. In spite of the pervasive discomfort attributed to the illness, quality of life status was mostly rated as being 'rather good' to 'good'. There was a consistent pattern: the better off currently, the less disturbance from the disease perceived. Higher age and longer duration of RA were significantly correlated to a lower status. In addition, individuals still working rated a higher quality of life and less intrusion of the disease. Self-ratings were corroborated by ratings of significant others. While there was an agreement on the level of the negative impact of the disease, the patients rated their current situation more positively than did significant others. The dual assessment of quality of life status and change appears reasonable and informative as regards rheumatoid arthritis.