Workplace impacts of anti-TNF therapies in rheumatoid arthritis: review of the literature
Authors: | Blake, J., Brooks, J., Greenbaum, H., Chan, F. |
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Year Published | 2009 |
Publication | Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy |
Volume | 10 |
Number | 2 |
Pages | 255-269 |
Publisher | Informa Healthcare |
Background |
Rheumatoid arthritis causes pain and serious functional impacts and substantially affects patients' daily lives, including their ability to work. |
Purpose |
The purpose of the paper is to examine recent studies of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis treated with TNF antagonists and the impacts these therapies have on the workplace. |
Setting |
This study is a systematic review. The included studies were undertaken in various locations and settings. |
Sample |
The sample included 133 articles and 14 poster abstracts that studied the impact of Rheumatoid Arthritis. |
Data Collection |
The studies were categorized into three distinct groups: general RA, DMARD, and TNF-antagonist literature. The general RA literature was used as a backdrop when examining literature regarding the impacts of DMARDs and the emergence of anti-TNF therapies on the workplace. |
Control |
There were no comparison or control conditions. |
Findings |
The results of early studies of the TNF antagonists varied regarding their effects on patients with RA in the workplace. Recent studies of adalimumab showed positive impacts across a range of workplace burdens. |
Conclusions |
Treatments such as adalimumab may help employees with RA to remain in the workforce and lead to reduced workplace costs to the employers and employees. |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19236197 |
Disabilities | |
Populations | Male & Female |
Outcomes | Employment acquisition | Increase in tenure |
NIDILRR Funded | |
Research Design | Systematic reviews and meta-analysis |
Peer Reviewed | Yes |