AB1355 MAPPING THE NEEDS OF WORKING INDIVIDUALS WITH RHEUMATIC DISEASES IN POLAND
Authors: A. Jonak, J. Rogowska, O. Brzezińska
Journal: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (2024)

<h3>Background:</h3> Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) comprise a diverse group with a wide range of symptoms and manifestations. A prevailing characteristic across many RMDs is their chronic nature, characterized by alternating periods of exacerbation and remission. The vast majority of RMDs have the potential to result in disability over time and significantly limit the possibility of both paid work and independent functioning. It is estimated that patients suffering from RMDs have a 10-15% higher work participation gap compared to healthy employees [1]. In connection with EULAR points of consideration to support RMDs patients in a satisfactory professional work published in 2021, in the presented study the professional situation of patients suffering from rheumatic diseases in Poland was assessed. <h3>Objectives:</h3> The study group consisted of members of patients suffering from RMDs societies and patients of the Rheumatology Department of the Medical University of Lodz aged 18 to 65. <h3>Methods:</h3> All data was gathered by an anonymous online questionnaire which was addressed to people aged 18 to 65 as this range corresponds with working age in Poland. It consisted of parts such as "general personal info", "disease description", "manual activities" and "work status". The survey included single-choice, multiple-choice and open-ended questions. This made up a 55- item questionnaire. <h3>Results:</h3> One hundred and sixty patients suffering from RMDs (N=145; 90.6 % women and 15; 9.4 % men) were included in the study. One hundred and twenty two of them (N=122; 76,2%) were actively working. Nearly half of the patients (N=75; 46,9%) reported that the RMD had gone into remission as a result of treatment. Enforced change in the type of work or retraining due to symptoms of RMD concerned 66 respondents (41,2 %). Implemented treatment of rheumatic disease resulted in improved performance at work in N=69; 43,1% of respondents. As for returning to work, taking up employment and then keeping it, the main difficulties of participants are: fear of worsening an existing illness N=67; 42,1%, too much pressure from the employer and other employees N=50; 31,4%; fear of dismissal N=35; 22% and lack of a position tailored to one's health needs N=25; 15,7%. The majority of respondents were not encouraged by anyone to return or take up work N=101; 63,5%. Nearly three quarters of respondents N= 117; 73,1% repeatedly went to work despite experiencing malaise, and 104 of them reported less efficiency in these circumstances. Discrimination at the workplace due to illness was experienced by 36,2% (N=58) of interviewees. A significant proportion of patients agree with a statement that working positively influences their mental health (N=131; 81,9%) and their physical health (N=94; 58,75%). Sixty-five (N=65; 40,6%) participants of the study expressed willingness to participate in qualification-changing courses and reskilling training. <h3>Conclusion:</h3> Through systematic approaches, physicians, employers, and social services can collaboratively assist individuals with Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases in achieving a relatively normal work life while respecting their health constraints. Enhancing awareness of rheumatic diseases among employers holds significant potential for improving both the reintegration into the workforce and the sustained maintenance of employment. <h3>REFERENCES:</h3> [1] van der Zwan R, de Beer P. The disability employment gap in European countries: what is the role of labour market policy? J Eur Soc Policy 2021;31:473–86. <h3>Acknowledgements:</h3> <b>NIL.</b> <h3>Disclosure of Interests:</h3> <b>None declared.</b>