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The Impact of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases on Patients' Quality of Life and Work Functionality: An Observational Study
Veruscka Leso1, Anna Testa, Daniela Pacella
1From the Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University Federico II, Naples, Italy (V.L., M.C.M., P.G., G.B., I.I.); Gastroenterology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy (A.T., A.R., F.C.); Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy (D.P.); and Division of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Maresca Hospital, Torre del Greco, Italy (G.D.V.).
Background:
This study aimed to assess the employment status, quality of life, and work functionality in patients affected by inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs).
Methods:
Patients (N = 216) were enrolled between June 2020 and October 2021. Personal, clinical, and occupational features were investigated. The Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaire were administered.
Results:
Among the enrolled patients, 114 (53%) were employed. The mean absenteeism and presenteeism percentages of 10% and 37% were determined, with 44% and 39% of daily and work activity impairment, respectively. A poor Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) was retrieved (47 ± 12). Extraintestinal manifestations, disease activity, and HRQoL were associated with occupational outcomes.
Conclusions:
IBD can impact patients' work functionality. The association between clinical, psychological, and occupational issues suggests the relevance for a multidisciplinary management of the disease.
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