The science behind measuring health-related quality of life
Joint pain and inflammation can limit your abilities from washing your hair to finishing a project at work. In fact, scientists have studied and identified the impact an illness such as rheumatoid arthritis can have on a person's health-related quality of life in specific areas. Researchers have assessed these areas using a survey called the SF-36®. The SF-36® asks 36 questions in 8 areas of function about physical and mental aspects of an individual's health-related quality of life. ORENCIA has been shown to improve the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, slow the advance of joint damage, and help improve physical function.
Important Safety Information: Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions can happen on the day of treatment or the day after receiving ORENCIA. Tell your healthcare provider or get emergency medical help right away if you have hives, swollen face, eyelids, lips, tongue, or trouble breathing.
In clinical studies*, ORENCIA IV has been shown to improve health-related quality of life in all 8 areas of the SF-36®:
- physical function
- bodily pain
- vitality
- general health
- social function
- mental health
- role-physical (physical limitations in daily activities)
- role-emotional (emotional [mental] limitations in daily activities)
Your results may vary.
*In these studies, patients with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis were given intravenous (IV) ORENCIA and methotrexate (MTX). Health-related quality of life was measured at 6 months and 1 year.
Ask yourself: "How am I doing in all of these 8 key areas?"
It's important to discuss your answers with your rheumatologist. If you find that you are struggling with these areas, ORENCIA may be the help that you need.
NEXT: ORENCIA Clinical Results