Variables related to work productivity loss in patients with ankylosing spondylitis

The work productivity loss due to ankylosing spondylitis (AS) has become subject of interest because of its socioeconomic impact. In addition to physical limitations, other variables seem to affect the productivity of those patients, who often withdraw early from the labor force. This review was aimed at identifying articles published in English, from January 2001 to December 2011, which assessed those variables in adult patients of both sexes diagnosed with AS, using standardized instruments to measure disease activity and work productivity. Thirty-three articles meeting the inclusion criteria were identified. The work productivity loss of patients with AS proved to be influenced by demographics, emotional, social, cultural, and occupational factors, and lifestyle. Understanding those potential risk factors may contribute to the development of preventive strategies to maintain patients with AS participating in the labor force.