Arthritis Affects Ability to Work

Arthritis and other rheumatic conditions are the leading cause of disability in the United States, including physical limitations which affect ability to work. An estimated 6.9 million people have arthritis-attributable work limitations. Consequences of arthritis-attributable work limitations include absenteeism, reduced productivity, loss of work, and lower income.

A study published in the April 2007 issue of Arthritis Care & Research analyzed data from the 2002 National Health Interview Survey which involved over 31,000 adults over the age of 18. One in 20 adults who responded to the survey reported arthritis-attributable work limitations. Among those diagnosed with arthritis by a doctor, the prevalence of arthritis-attributable work limitations jumped to 1 in 3 people. Adults with both arthritis and arthritis-attributable work limitations also had multiple indicators of poor physical health and function including:

• High body mass index
• Joint pain
• Physical limitations in several activities
• Frequent visits to the doctor

The prevalence of arthritis-attributable work limitations was highest among people ages 45-64 years, women, non-Hispanic blacks, people with less than a high school education, and those with an annual household income less than $20,000.

Related Resources:

• Working & Disability Issues
• Can I Continue to Work?
• Social Security Disability: How to Apply
• Arthritis Affects Work and Leisure Activities

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