Work Impact on Employees Diagnosed with Catastrophic, Rare or Orphan Diseases in a Consumer Goods Company in Quito – Ecuador

Abstract

Justification: In mass consumer goods companies, where productivity demands are high and constant, the presence of employees diagnosed with catastrophic, rare, or orphan diseases underscores the need to analyze the impact of such diagnoses within the workplace environment. Objective: To analyze the diagnosis of catastrophic, rare, or orphan diseases and the prevalence of psychosocial risks, anxiety, and depression, identifying critical vulnerabilities in the work environment. Methodology: A non-experimental quantitative approach with a descriptive scope was employed, involving a population of 78 employees. Data were collected using the Battery of Instruments for the Assessment of Psychosocial Risk Factors, as well as the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Results: Fifty-one percent of the sample presented high psychosocial risk and 49% moderate risk. Additionally, 65% showed high levels of emotional exhaustion, and 63% reported anxiety levels ranging from moderate to severe. Conclusion: The study describes a generalized situation of psychosocial and emotional vulnerability among the evaluated population, in which workplace demands and coexisting health conditions create a risk scenario that may affect well-being and professional performance.