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Measuring productivity loss in early relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
Susana Sainz de la Maza1, Jorge Maurino2, Mónica Borges3
1Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain.
Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders
|February 26, 2022
Summary
Early-stage multiple sclerosis significantly impacts work productivity, causing absenteeism and presenteeism. Effective disease management is crucial to mitigate these effects on employment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a leading cause of neurological disability in young adults.
- It significantly affects autonomy and employment capacity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of early-stage relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) on work productivity.
- To identify factors associated with productivity loss in RRMS patients.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter, non-interventional study included 189 adult patients with RRMS (disease duration ≤ 3 years, EDSS 0-5.5).
- Work productivity was measured using the Valuation of Lost Productivity (VOLP) questionnaire, assessing absenteeism, presenteeism, and unpaid work loss.
- Clinical data, including disability (EDSS), symptom severity, fatigue, and mood, were collected.
Main Results:
- 68.8% of patients were employed; 40.8% reported work absence, averaging 14.3 days.
- Absenteeism correlated with anxiety, depression, fatigue, and symptom severity.
- Presenteeism was linked to fatigue, symptom severity, depression, and disability.
Conclusions:
- Productivity loss occurs even in early-stage RRMS.
- There is a need for improved treatment strategies to control disease activity from the earliest stages of MS.
