The Influence of Chronic Respiratory Conditions on Health Status and Work Disability

OBJECTIVES: This study examined the impact of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on health status and work disability. METHODS: We used data from a population-based sample of 3805 California adults. RESULTS: Compared with adults with no chronic health conditions, adults with COPD or asthma had a greater risk of self-reported diminished general health (odds ratio [OR] = 10.95; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 6.31, 19.0 and OR = 3.92; 95% CI = 2.31, 6.65, respectively). Respondents with COPD or asthma also had worse mental health status, as indicated by a greater risk of depressive symptoms (OR = 10.05; 95% CI = 5.29, 19.08 and OR = 2.59; 95% CI = 1.33, 5.04). COPD was associated with reduced current employment (OR = 0.41; 95% CI = 0.24, 0.71). CONCLUSIONS: Asthma and COPD are associated with poor health status and greater work disability.