The Burn Survivor's Perspective on Disability: A Survey-Based Analysis

Burn injuries profoundly impact survivors, influencing physical, psychological, and social well-being. Long-term outcome studies often focus on physical impairments and work-related difficulties, often from the perspective of the clinician. Survivor input is limited. This study evaluates long-term self-reported outcomes related to disability, psychological effects, and work challenges from the perspective of the patient. A cross-sectional anonymous survey targeting burn survivors was conducted from January to April 2023. demographic data, burn injury characteristics (location, percentage total body surface area [%TBSA], and scar visibility), and long-term functional status were collected. Primary outcomes included physical and psychological impacts (0 = no impact, 10 = extreme impact) and work-related changes. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, chi-square tests, and multivariate regression were performed using Stata BE 18.5. Among 128 respondents (mean age 42; 17 at injury; 25-year follow-up), most were White (60.9%) and female (53.9%). One-third were identified as disabled due to burn injuries. Average physical and psychological impact scores were 5.0 and 5.7, respectively. Visible burns, facial scars, higher %TBSA, and older age at injury significantly increased odds of disability. Nearly all (91%) reported work challenges, with 40% requiring job modifications. Most (87%) received skin grafts. Neither gender nor ethnicity significantly influenced disability odds. Burn survivors face substantial long-term physical, psychological, and work-related challenges, with disability influenced by injury severity and characteristics. These findings emphasize the need for comprehensive, tailored support to improve survivors' quality of life and functional outcomes, guiding future interventions and services by local and national organizations.