Hand Eczema and Self-Reported Work Ability in Middle-Aged Cohort: A Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 Study

Hand eczema (HE) can cause itching, fissures and pain, and reduce overall functioning, including the ability to work. However, few studies have examined self-rated work ability in individuals with HE.

To investigate self-reported work ability in individuals with and without HE in a middle-aged cohort in the north of Finland.

As part of the 46-year follow-up visit of a large birth cohort study program, participants were invited to complete an extensive questionnaire, which included questions about their education level, health status and health-related lifestyle. The presence of clinician -diagnosed HE was also reported as part of the questionnaire, as was participants' work capability, measured with the Work Ability Score.

HE was reported by 853/6643 (12.8%) participants, more commonly by females (15.6%) than males (9.5%; p < 0.001). Poor work ability was more frequent in participants with HE (23.9%) than those without (17.8%; p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounding factors (sex, education level, smoking status, physical activity, body mass index, symptoms of depression and musculoskeletal disorders) individuals with HE had a higher risk than those without of reporting poor work ability (adjusted odds ratio 1.33, 95% confidence interval, 1.09-1.62).

HE is associated with poor self-assessed work ability.