Employment after myocardial infarction amongst previously healthy men

Abstract

A postal questionnaire was sent to 55 men 18 months after their first myocardial infarction; information obtained was supplemented by interview with two of the authors (PW and GC). Fifty-three men had been in full-time employment prior to their illness, 38 of them in manual work. Their return to work and changes in employment were examined and, in addition, enquiries were made about subsequent health, assistance from trade unions and the local Disabled Resettlement Officer (DRO). Details of attitude to subsequent physical exercise and sexual activity were also recorded. Eighteen months after myocardial infarction, only 35% of these men were employed and 27% asymptomatic. Patients in heavy manual work were largely unable to return to their previous job and little assistance was obtained from trade unions. Even when patients were made aware of the existence of the DRO, few approached him for advice. A counselling service is needed for patients recovering from an infarct to encourage them to return to an active and profitable life.