Sources and level of income among individuals with multiple sclerosis compared to the general population: A nationwide population-based study.

INTRODUCTION

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with reduced work capacity, but there is limited knowledge about MS patients' sources of income.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to elucidate MS patients' earnings and social benefits compared to those of the general population.

METHODS

From nationwide registers of all residents in Sweden aged 21-64 years in 2010 (n=5,291,764), those with an MS diagnosis (n=13,979) were compared to a propensity score matched reference group (n=69,895). Descriptive statistics and regression models were used to estimate the percentage difference between the MS patients and the matched references regarding the following annual incomes: earnings, disability pension, sickness absence, disability allowance, unemployment compensation and social assistance.

RESULTS

Both MS patients and the matched references received most of their income from earnings followed by disability pension and sickness absence. MS patients that were diagnosed in 2010 had 15% lower earnings than the matched references, while MS patients diagnosed before 2005 had 38% lower earnings. Corresponding figures regarding summed social benefits were 33% and 130% higher for MS patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that MS patients are overrepresented, in relative and absolute terms, regarding health-related benefits and have lower levels of earnings. However, the redistributing welfare systems appear to financially compensate the MS patients considerably.