The Relationship Between Coronary Artery Angiographic Characteristics, Occupational Factors, and Return to Work

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Occupational Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of disability and work absence in adults.
• Understanding factors influencing return to work post-cardiac events is crucial for rehabilitation and treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate employment status one year after angiography in patients with stable angina and acute coronary syndrome.
• To identify clinical and occupational factors affecting return to work.
• To examine the influence of occupational factors on angiographic characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 447 patients undergoing coronary angiography.
• Data collected via medical records and telephone interviews one year post-discharge.
• Utilized the Job Content Questionnaire to assess occupational factors.

Main Results:

• 70% of patients returned to work one year post-angiography, with 86.3% resuming previous jobs.
• Reduced return-to-work rates were linked to extensive coronary artery disease, hypertension history, lower ejection fraction, and prolonged hospitalization.
• Occupational factors like low income, extended work hours, and high job demands negatively impacted employment outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Clinical and socioeconomic factors significantly predict return-to-work probability after angiography in CAD patients.
• Incorporating these factors into clinical guidelines can improve employment outcomes and patient rehabilitation.