RA Work Disability — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyRheumatoid ArthritisRA Work DisabilitySCE Rheumatology

In a UK community-based inception cohort of people who were economically active at the onset of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, approximately what cumulative proportion had developed work disability by 10 years after symptom onset?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — 40%

The correct answer is A: approximately 40%. In the UK Norfolk Arthritis Register community-based cohort, cumulative work disability among people economically active at RA symptom onset was 14% at 1 year, 26% at 2 years, 33% at 5 years and 39% at 10 years. Thus, 40% is the closest estimate. The lower figures in B and C substantially underestimate the reported 10-year burden, whereas D and E overestimate it. This cohort estimate should not be interpreted as an inevitable prognosis for an individual treated today: employment outcomes vary with functional impairment, disease activity, job demands and socioeconomic factors. Early effective DMARD treatment, occupational support and appropriate workplace adaptations are important measures for maintaining work participation.

Reference: Barrett EM, Scott DG, Wiles NJ, Symmons DP. The impact of rheumatoid arthritis on employment status in the early years of disease: a UK community-based study. Rheumatology. 2000;39:1403–1409. https://www.eular.org/document/download/218/d1b21d25-9dea-42c0-ab04-a14951665bfc/300