Direct and indirect costs of systemic sclerosis and associated interstitial lung disease: A nationwide population-based cohort study.

SSc is associated with a significant individual and societal burden that is evident several years before and after the diagnosis. Total excess costs are higher in SSc-ILD than in the non-ILD SSc underlining the severity of pulmonary involvement. Initiatives to maintain work ability and to reduce hospital admissions may reduce the economic burden of SSc.