The association between post-polio symptoms as measured by the Index of Post-Polio Sequelae and self-reported functional status

•The IPPS is a useful tool in the clinical evaluation of polio population.•Higher disability in ADL and mobility were associated with higher IPPS score.•Worse perception of physical and mental health were associated with higher IPPS score.•Standardized rating scales should be used in clinical evaluation of polio survivors.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the association between self-reported severity of polio sequelae and current functional status among polio survivors.MethodsThis was a cross sectional study of 195 polio survivors attending a polio outpatient clinic at a university hospital. The main outcome measures of demographic, medical, social, and functional data were gleaned from a questionnaire adapted for the polio population. The severity of polio sequelae was evaluated with the self-reported Index of Post-Polio Sequelae (IPPS).ResultsThe mean age of our sample was 57.6 ± 10.5 years, 53% were men, 38% had acquired higher education and 37% were employed. We found significant correlations between the total IPPS score and independence in activity of daily living (P < 0.05), the use of walking aids (P < 0.005) and mobility in and out-of-doors (P < 0.0001). A positive correlation was also found between the total IPPS score and subjective assessment of physical and mental health (P < 0.0001).ConclusionsHigher disability in ADL and mobility and lower perception of physical and mental health in polio survivors were associated with a higher score on the IPPS, reflecting greater severity of polio sequelae. These findings demonstrate the IPPS as a useful tool in the clinical evaluation of the polio population, however further data is needed in order to determine if this index can assess clinically significant changes over time.