Behçet's syndrome and health-related quality of life: influence of symptoms, lifestyle and employment status.

Objective. Behcet's syndrome (BS) is a chronic multisystemic disorder. The complex pattern of BS symptoms can effect negatively on patients' quality of life. The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of BS symptoms, oral health related lifestyles and employment status on Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL). Methods. A questionnaire was mailed to a cohort of 641 adult members of the Behcet's Syndrome Society (BSS) and patients attending a Behcet's syndrome centre in the UK. Respondents gave information on socio-demographic characteristics, disease duration, current symptoms, symptom control, health related lifestyle, diet, smoking and alcohol, employment status and quality of life (the EQ-5D index). Results. 315 out of 426 BS participants (males: females=136: 179) were recruited. BS symptoms and EQ-5D score model (R=0.67 and R-2=0.45) and standardised coefficients for symptoms were; arthropathy (-0.336), headache (-0.227), neurological problems (-0.135), pathergy reaction (-0.119) and skin lesions (-0.107) in decreasing order. This finding was similar to a 2009 study of the same cohort. Regression analysis of tobacco consumption revealed that tobacco use was a risk factor for decreasing the EQ-5D score (beta value =-0.72, p=0.001). Using an effective mouthwash has a positive impact on HRQoL (beta value=0.149 and p=0.012). The mean EQ-5D in patients who continued in employment and who were not receiving benefits was better compared to other sub groups. Conclusion. BS symptoms, Employment status, a healthy lifestyle combined with a good oral health have a significant impact on the HRQoL of BS patients.