Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder in Western China impacts employment and increases financial burden in women

BackgroundNeuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) often leads to disability and exerts a heavy toll on the work and life of affected female patients. This study aimed to analyze the current employment situation and economic burden as well as the risk factors for unemployment in female patients with NMSOD. MethodsWe compared the following unemployment- and employment-related aspects in with NSMOD, which were investigated using questionnaires: the specific impact of NMOSD on work, medical expenses, and factors affecting unemployment. ResultsWe enrolled 351 female patients with NMOSD. More than half (54.1%, 190/351) of participants reported that the disease led to unemployment. The unemployment group was significantly older (46.9 +/- 12.1 years vs. 39.3 +/- 9.4 years, P = 0.000), had a higher annual recurrence rate (ARR) (0.6 [inter quartile range [IQR]:0.4-0.9] vs. 0.5 [IQR: 0.3-0.8], P = 0.141), and a higher severe disability rate (44.2% vs. 11.2%, P = 0.000) than the employment group. Moreover, unemployed patients had lower education levels. The factors influencing unemployment included low education (junior middle-school or below), age, higher ARR, and severe disability (odds ratio [OR] = 6.943, P = 0.000; OR = 1.034, P = 0.010; OR = 1.778, P = 0.038; and OR = 4.972, P = 0.000, respectively). Medication and hospitalization costs constituted the principal economic burdens. ConclusionThe heavy financial burden, employment difficulties, and high unemployment rate are the most prominent concerns of female patients with NMOSD who require more social support and concern.

Automated summary

This study analyzed the employment situation and economic burden of female patients with NMOSD, finding a high unemployment rate. Unemployed patients were usually older, had higher recurrence rates, and more severe disabilities, with lower education levels. Medication and hospitalization costs constituted the main economic burden.