Opinion of patients with ankylosing spondylitis on risk factors impairing their quality of life.

We studied 54 patients with ankylosing spondylitis with questionnaire in order to determine their view on threat to quality of their life related to the disease. We have show that pain and significant disability are the main threats associated with the disease in view of the patients. Social aspects (losing of job or decreasing of income) are also important for the patients, while management of the disease is not considered as arduous. The results of patients' opinion may be helpful in designing of educational programs for them.