Arthritis Ireland has announced the release of its landmark research report, ‘Counting the Cost of Arthritis’. This comprehensive study, the first of its kind in Ireland, sheds light on the significant financial and personal burden borne by individuals living with arthritis.
The report highlights the essential nature of healthcare services, medications, and support services like physiotherapy and occupational therapy for managing arthritis. Despite the necessity of these measures, many individuals must bear these costs out of their own pockets, even when their condition prevents them from working full-time or forces them to withdraw from employment altogether.
Gráinne O’Leary, Chief Executive of Arthritis Ireland, expressed grave concerns over the report’s findings. “Arthritis imposes an average annual cost of €3,538 per person. Additionally, 70 per cent of employed respondents reported an average income loss of €3,111 per year, highlighting severe financial inequity. Furthermore, 31 per cent of respondents under 65 are retired or unable to work, with 89 per cent attributing this to arthritis. These findings underscore significant economic and social implications, demanding further investigation,” she said.
The study, conducted with the input of over 1,600 participants from the arthritis community, emphasises the strong desire among those living with arthritis to share their experiences. Their personal stories are both stark and compelling, highlighting the sacrifices made to improve their health and wellbeing.
Jan Sorensen, Professor of Health Economics at RCSI, highlights alarming health disparities: “Fifty-five per cent of Arthritis Ireland respondents report ‘poor’ health, compared to just 2.5 per cent in Healthy Ireland studies. Additionally, 70 per cent of respondents had mobility issues, 97 per cent experienced pain, 80 per cent struggled with daily activities, and 65 per cent faced anxiety and depression. These findings, compounded by respondents’ comments, depict a very challenging situation for those living with arthritis.”
Claire Kinneavy, who lives with rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren’s disease, was one of the co-developers of the questionnaire. She says, “Having endured the uncertainty and pain of arthritis for over 40 years, I can attest to the significant impact this disease has on daily life, including family dynamics, employment, and social opportunities.”
As the number of people living with arthritis in Ireland is set to increase in the coming years, Arthritis Ireland is calling on political leaders and policy-makers to take practical and measured steps to alleviate the financial burden on those affected and by doing so, improve health outcomes and significantly reduce financial strain. “We will not rest until the voices of our community are heard and their burden is eased,” concluded Ms O’Leary.
