Story perspectives

Arthritis Cuts Work Life by Over 5 Years

1/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A study using Health and Retirement Study (HRS) data finds working life expectancy (HWLE) for arthritis patients at 6.18 years with no limitations, versus 11.71 years for those without arthritis.
Obesity, lack of a high school diploma, and race significantly affect HWLE.
For example, Black men with arthritis have an HWLE of 3.51 years.
It notes limitations from self-reported data and cross-sectional design and urges more research and employer accommodations.

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Story summary

A study using Health and Retirement Study (HRS) data finds working life expectancy (HWLE) for arthritis patients at 6.18 years with no limitations, versus 11.71 years for those without arthritis.
Obesity, lack of a high school diploma, and race significantly affect HWLE.
For example, Black men with arthritis have an HWLE of 3.51 years.
It notes limitations from self-reported data and cross-sectional design and urges more research and employer accommodations.