Factors Affecting Quality of Life and Work Productivity among Patients with Gout

Abstract

Gout is the most common inflammatory arthritis today, affecting 4% of the adult US population. It is a serious disease that can significantly affect physical function and quality of life (QOL), where it has been advocated as an important outcome domain in studies of chronic gout. Aim of the study: To assess factors affecting quality of life and work productivity among patients with gout. Descriptive design: Was used to conduct the current study in rheumatology outpatient clinics, at Benha Teaching Hospital during the period from beginning of March 2018 till the beginning of September 2018. Subjects: Purposive sample of 168 patients recruited according to the study formula based on the total number of patients who admitted to the study settings during 2017. Tools: Three tools were utilized for data collection, structured interviewing questionnaire sheet, Medical Outcomes Study Questionnaire Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire. Results: Showed that both QOL as well as work productivity and activity impairment were best predicted by pain severity, diet aggravating frequency of attacks, nature of work as well as age. Besides, there was a negative and significant correlation (p= Conclusion: Factors affecting QOL and Work productivity and activity impairment among patients with gout were concerning pain severity, diet aggravating frequency of attacks, nature of work as well as age. Besides, the impairment on different aspects of life is often negatively associated with impairment in work productivity and activity, where they were mainly affected by gout. Recommendation: Health educational instructions is required regarding pain management and diet regimen for patients with gout.