Health-related quality of life in patients with chronic rheumatic disease after a multidisciplinary rehabilitation regimen

C Couppé, J Comins, N Beyer, S E Hansen, D S Stodolsky, V Siersma

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Multidisciplinary rehabilitation has beneficial effects on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with chronic rheumatic diseases. However, whether this intervention benefits different age groups in women or men is largely unknown.

PURPOSE: To investigate HRQoL in patients with chronic rheumatic disease after completion of a 3-week multidisciplinary treatment, with special focus on differences in effect between age and gender groups.

METHOD: HRQoL was measured with SF-36. Mean scores for all SF-36 domains were compared before and after the 3-week regimen and again at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups. Multivariable linear regression models using generalized estimating equations to account for repeated measurement were employed. A weighting procedure to account for differential dropouts was applied.

RESULTS: Three hundred fifty-six women and 74 men with chronic rheumatic disease were included. There were short-term improvements in all SF-36 domains irrespective of age or gender. These effects persisted for up to 1 year in the psychological, social, and energy domains for women under 50. We found no lasting effects for men; however, young men showed similar trends.

CONCLUSION: Inpatient multidisciplinary rehabilitation improves short-term HRQoL in all patients. Younger women maintain these beneficial effects for up to 1 year. Additional intervention should be considered for elderly women and for men in order to sustain rehabilitation effects.

Original languageEnglish
JournalQuality of life research : an international journal of quality of life aspects of treatment, care and rehabilitation
Volume26
Issue number2
Pages (from-to)381-391
Number of pages11
ISSN0962-9343
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2017

Keywords

  • Aged
  • Chronic Disease
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Rheumatic Diseases
  • Sickness Impact Profile
  • Journal Article
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

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