Comparing self-reported function and work disability in 100 community cases of fibromyalgia syndrome versus controls in London, Ontario - The London Fibromyalgia Epidemiology Study

Objective. To compare function and disability in fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS ) cases in the community versus controls, and to identify variables predict ing poor function and disability. Methods. We identified 100 FMS cases, 76 pain controls, and 135 general con trols in a random survey of 3,395 noninstitutionalized adults. Results. FMS cases reported worse function (P < 0.00001), more days in bed (P < 0.001), and more healthy Sears of life lost (P < 0.0001). More FMS cas es were disabled (P < 0.00001) and receiving pensions (P < 0.0001). Risk fa ctors for disability included middle age and previous heavy manual labor. P ain, fatigue, and weakness were most often claimed to affect the ability to work. Variables predicting work disability were the Fibro-myalgia Impact Q uestionnaire (FIQ) score, a prior diagnosis of FMS, nonrestorative sleep, a nd past heavy physical labor, Variables influencing the FIQ score were the number of major symptoms, self-reported health satisfaction, tender point c ount, and education level, Conclusion. FMS commonly results in loss of function and work disability.