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Yang ZY, Chen WL, Wu WT, Lai CH, Ho CL, Wang CC. Return to Work and Mortality in Breast Cancer Survivors: A 11-Year Longitudinal Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14418. [PMID: 36361291 PMCID: PMC9655987 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in women, and it is a major cause of cancer death around the world. With the development of diagnostic methods and improvements in treatment methods, the incidence rate of breast cancer and the number of breast cancer survivors continue to simultaneously increase. We used national registry database to analyze the features that affect employment and return to work among breast cancer survivors. A total of 23,220 employees, who were newly diagnosed with breast cancer were recruited based on the Labor Insurance Database (LID), the Taiwan Cancer Registry (TCR), and National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) during the period 2004-2015. The correlations between return to work (RTW) and independent confounding factors were examined using Cox proportional hazards model. Survival probability was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meir method. After adjusting for confounding variables, cancer stage, chemotherapy and higher income were significantly negatively correlated with RTW. Among breast cancer survivors, RTW was found to be related to a lower risk of all-cause mortality in both the unadjusted and fully adjusted model. Patients who had RTW exhibited better survival in all stages. Work-, disease- and treatment-related factors influenced RTW among employees with breast cancer. RTW was associated with better breast cancer survival. Our study demonstrates the impact of RTW and the associated factors on breast cancer survivorship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe-Yu Yang
- Division of Family Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Liang Chen
- Division of Family Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
- Division of Occupational Medicine, Department of Family & Community Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Te Wu
- National Institute of Environmental Health Science, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 350, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Huang Lai
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Liang Ho
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ching Wang
- Division of Family Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
- Division of Occupational Medicine, Department of Family & Community Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
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Paltrinieri S, Vicentini M, Mancuso P, Mazzini E, Fugazzaro S, Rossi PG, Costi S. Return to work of Italian cancer survivors: A focus on prognostic work-related factors. Work 2022; 71:681-691. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-210008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Return to work (RTW) enhances the general well-being and social participation of cancer survivors (CSs). OBJECTIVE: To describe the predictive value of work-related factors on the RTW process of CSs. The work accommodations, the perceived workload, and the barriers and facilitations of RTW are also reported. METHODS: This population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in the Province of Reggio Emilia from July 2016 to July 2017. CSs who were 20–59 years old, first diagnosed with cancer, and employed at diagnosis were recruited. RESULTS: The majority of CSs (140/266, 53%) returned to work without difficulties, 42% reported difficulties, and 5% did not RTW. CSs who were shift workers (sex and age-adjusted Relative Risk [adj-RR] 1.30; 95% CI 0.94 –1.78) and who worked at night (adj-RR 1.36 95% CI 0.99 –1.86), in the evening (adj-RR 1.23; 95% CI 0.95 –1.57) and on Sundays (adj-RR 1.15; 95% CI 0.81 –1.63) perceived more difficulties. Physically demanding work and a long commute seemed to negatively impact RTW. Accommodations in work tasks (37%) or schedule (26%) were implemented. Workload was not acceptable for 18% of CSs. The main barriers concerned energy and drive functions, whereas remunerative employment was the foremost facilitation. CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare professionals should address work-related factors that might influence RTW with personalized interventions of vocational rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Paltrinieri
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, AziendaUnità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Massimo Vicentini
- Epidemiology Unit, Azienda Unità SanitariaLocale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Pamela Mancuso
- Epidemiology Unit, Azienda Unità SanitariaLocale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisa Mazzini
- Medical Directorate, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefania Fugazzaro
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, AziendaUnità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Paolo Giorgi Rossi
- Epidemiology Unit, Azienda Unità SanitariaLocale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefania Costi
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences, Università di Modena eReggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Scientific Directorate, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
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Peipins LA, Dasari S, Rodriguez JL, White MC, Hodgson ME, Sandler DP. Employment After Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Among Women in the Sister and the Two Sister Studies. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2021; 31:543-551. [PMID: 33387171 PMCID: PMC8485879 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-020-09951-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Women undergoing diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer may face challenges in employment. We investigated the impact of demographic, clinical, workplace, and psychosocial characteristics on loss of employment after a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. We further describe changes in work status and work environment for cancer survivors who sustain employment. Methods We analyzed responses from a survey of breast cancer survivors from the Sister Study and the Two Sister Study cohorts who reported being employed at the time of their breast cancer diagnosis and who reported employment status (lost vs. sustained employment) at the time of survey administration. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the effects of lymphedema, neuropathy, problems with memory or attention, social support, health insurance, and sick leave on lost employment, adjusting for demographic characteristics, cancer stage, treatment, and general health. Results Of the 1675 respondents who reported being employed at the time of diagnosis, 83.5% reported being 'currently' employed at the time of the survey. Older age, peripheral neuropathy, lack of sick leave, late stage at diagnosis, a recurrence or a new cancer, problems with memory or attention, and poor general health were significantly associated with lost employment. Conclusions The long-term effects of breast cancer treatment and workplace provisions for leave and accommodation may have a substantial effect on women's ability to sustain employment. The findings from this study highlight challenges reported by cancer survivors that may inform clinical and occupational interventions to support survivors' return to work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy A Peipins
- Epidemiology and Applied Research Branch, Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- NCCDPHP/DCPC, Mailstop S-107-4, 4770 Buford Hwy, NE, Chamblee, GA, 30341-3717, USA.
| | | | - Juan L Rodriguez
- Epidemiology and Applied Research Branch, Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Mary C White
- Epidemiology and Applied Research Branch, Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Dale P Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Trajectories of Cognitive Symptoms in Sick-Listed Cancer Survivors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102444. [PMID: 34069998 PMCID: PMC8157828 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The effects of cognitive symptoms on the ability to work are of major concern for cancer survivors. The aim of our study was to explore trajectories of cognitive functioning in sick-listed cancer survivors with work capacity. We found that cognitive functioning improved between two and four years after first day of sick leave, although cognitive symptoms remained of clinical concern in cancer survivors who are non-durable work-disabled (partly or fully). This underlines the importance to provide partly and fully, non-durable work disabled cancer survivors with evidence-based treatment options for their self-perceived cognitive symptoms. Abstract Many non-central nervous system (CNS) cancer survivors experience cognitive symptoms, which may affect their self-perceived work ability. Little is known about trajectories of self-perceived cognitive functioning in cancer survivors in the period after work disability assessment. Therefore, we evaluated: (1) trajectories of self-reported cognitive functioning, in cancer survivors with work capacity, (2) differences in trajectories of self-reported cognitive functioning between three work disability groups, and (3) explanatory factors of trajectories of self-reported cognitive functioning. Participants (n = 206) were assessed on self-reported cognitive functioning at three time points between two and four years after first day of sick leave. A statistically significant improvement in cognitive functioning was found in the total group (β = 4.62, SE = 0.91, p < 0.001). When comparing cancer survivors in different work disability groups, similar trajectories of cognitive functioning were observed. Fatigue was the only factor found to be associated with the reported trajectory (β = −0.23, SE = 0.086, p = 0.08). Self-perceived cognitive functioning scores remained considerably lower than the mean score of the general Dutch population, indicating that cognitive symptoms are a persistent problem in sick-listed cancer survivors and that evidence-based treatment options are warranted.
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Ghasempour M, Shabanloei R, Rahmani A, Jafarabadi MA, Abri F, Khajehgoodari M. The Relation of Readiness for Return to Work and Return to Work Among Iranian Cancer Survivors. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2020; 35:1237-1242. [PMID: 31456144 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-019-01588-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Return to work after completion of cancer treatments has many benefits for patients, families, and society. Readiness for return to work (RRTW) seems to be an effective factor for return to work in cancer survivors. Therefore, the present study was to investigate return to work and its relation to RRTW among Iranian survivors of cancer. This descriptive-correlational study examined a total of 227 survived cancer patients with completed primary treatments and without active cancer symptoms. Data were collected by the return to work and RRTW questionnaires and analyzed with descriptive statistics and inferential statistics using SPSS software. Upon completion of initial treatment, 166 (73.2%) of survivor participants returned to work, of which 78 (34.4%) and 88 (38.4%) participants returned to full-time and part-time works, respectively. ANOVA test showed a significant difference between RRTW and the type of return to work. In addition, results of regression analysis revealed that there was a positive significant relationship between RRTW and the rate of return to work before and after the adjustment of variables (p ≤ 0.05). Considering the findings of the study, there is a necessary need planning for rehabilitation programs by nursing managers concerning these patients to facilitate their return to work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Ghasempour
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Sina Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Shabanloei
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Sina Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Azad Rahmani
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Sina Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Asghari Jafarabadi
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fariba Abri
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khajehgoodari
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Sina Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Longo CJ, Fitch MI, Banfield L, Hanly P, Yabroff KR, Sharp L. Financial toxicity associated with a cancer diagnosis in publicly funded healthcare countries: a systematic review. Support Care Cancer 2020; 28:4645-4665. [PMID: 32653957 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05620-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Financial toxicity related to cancer diagnosis and treatment is a common issue in developed countries. We seek to systematically summarize the extent of the issue in very high development index countries with publicly funded healthcare. METHODS We identified articles published Jan 1, 2005, to March 7, 2019, describing financial burden/toxicity experienced by cancer patients and/or informal caregivers using OVID Medline Embase and PsychInfo, CINAHL, Business Source Complete, and EconLit databases. Only English language peer-reviewed full papers describing studies conducted in very high development index countries with predominantly publicly funded healthcare were eligible (excluded the USA). All stages of the review were evaluated in teams of two researchers excepting the final data extraction (CJL only). RESULTS The searches identified 7117 unique articles, 32 of which were eligible. Studies were undertaken in Canada, Australia, Ireland, UK, Germany, Denmark, Malaysia, Finland, France, South Korea, and the Netherlands. Eighteen studies reported patient/caregiver out-of-pocket costs (range US$17-US$506/month), 18 studies reported patient/caregiver lost income (range 17.6-67.3%), 14 studies reported patient/caregiver travel and accommodation costs (range US$8-US$393/month), and 6 studies reported financial stress (range 41-48%), strain (range 7-39%), or financial burden/distress/toxicity among patients/caregivers (range 22-27%). The majority of studies focused on patients, with some including caregivers. Financial toxicity was greater in those with early disease and/or more severe cancers. CONCLUSIONS Despite government-funded universal public healthcare, financial toxicity is an issue for cancer patients and their families. Although levels of toxicity vary between countries, the findings suggest financial protection appears to be inadequate in many countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Longo
- Health Policy and Management, DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Margaret I Fitch
- Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laura Banfield
- Health Sciences Library, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul Hanly
- National College of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - K Robin Yabroff
- Health Services Research, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Linda Sharp
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Louwerse I, van Rijssen HJ, Huysmans MA, van der Beek AJ, Anema JR. Predicting Long-Term Sickness Absence and Identifying Subgroups Among Individuals Without an Employment Contract. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2020; 30:371-380. [PMID: 32030546 PMCID: PMC7406482 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-020-09874-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Today, decreasing numbers of workers in Europe are employed in standard employment relationships. Temporary contracts and job insecurity have become more common. This study among workers without an employment contract aimed to (i) predict risk of long-term sickness absence and (ii) identify distinct subgroups of sick-listed workers. Methods 437 individuals without an employment contract who were granted a sickness absence benefit for at least two weeks were followed for 1 year. We used registration data and self-reported questionnaires on sociodemographics, work-related, health-related and psychosocial factors. Both were retrieved from the databases of the Dutch Social Security Institute and measured at the time of entry into the benefit. We used logistic regression analysis to identify individuals at risk of long-term sickness absence. Latent class analysis was used to identify homogenous subgroups of individuals. Results Almost one-third of the study population (n = 133; 30%) was still at sickness absence at 1-year follow-up. The final prediction model showed fair discrimination between individuals with and without long-term sickness absence (optimism adjusted AUC to correct for overfitting = 0.761). Four subgroups of individuals were identified based on predicted risk of long-term sickness absence, self-reported expectations about recovery and return to work, reason of sickness absence and coping skills. Conclusion The logistic regression model could be used to identify individuals at risk of long-term sickness absence. Identification of risk groups can aid professionals to offer tailored return to work interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilse Louwerse
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Dutch Institute of Employee Benefit Schemes (UWV), Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Research Center for Insurance Medicine, AMC-UMCG-VUmc-UWV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - H Jolanda van Rijssen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Dutch Institute of Employee Benefit Schemes (UWV), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Research Center for Insurance Medicine, AMC-UMCG-VUmc-UWV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike A Huysmans
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Research Center for Insurance Medicine, AMC-UMCG-VUmc-UWV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Allard J van der Beek
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Research Center for Insurance Medicine, AMC-UMCG-VUmc-UWV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes R Anema
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Research Center for Insurance Medicine, AMC-UMCG-VUmc-UWV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Mahumud RA, Alam K, Dunn J, Gow J. The changing relationship between health burden and work disability of Australian cancer survivors, 2003-2017: evidence from a longitudinal survey. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:548. [PMID: 32321481 PMCID: PMC7178584 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08710-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the cancer health burden and themagnitude of work disability on cancer survivors in Australia from 2003 to 2017. METHODS A longitudinal prospective study design was undertaken among cancer patients using data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey. The longitudinal effect was captured using a fixed effect multinomial logistic regression model, which predicted changes in the relationship between cancer burden and work disability level controlling for socio-demographic, lifestyle and life conditions predictors. RESULTS The prevalence of long-term disability among cancer survivors was 50%, with 18% of patients experiencing extreme work disability. The magnitude of disability levels increased significantly with the level of health burden. Cancer survivors who faced a severe health burden were at 5.32 times significantly higher risk of having work disability compared with patients who had no health burden. Other potential predictors, such as older patients (relative risk ratio, RRR = 1.82; 95% CI: 1.57, 5.87), those engaged in lower levels of physical activities (RRR = 1.91; 95% CI: 1.07, 3.40), those who drink alcohol (RRR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.15, 1.49), and poor socioeconomic status (RRR = 1.28; 95% CI: 1.16, 2.23) were all significantly associated with extreme work disability. CONCLUSION A substantial proportion of cancer survivors experienced work disability which was more pronounced with the magnitude of the cancer health burden. The different dimensions of disability might be prevented by introducing cancer survivor-specific evidence-based interventions, and incorporating comprehensive social support. Recommendations to improve public health policy aimed at reducing population-level unhealthy lifestyle behaviours include: using these findings to better outline the management of a sequelae course of treatment for cancer survivors; and identifying those who should undergo more intensive physical rehabilitation aimed at reducing their work disability level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashidul Alam Mahumud
- Health Economics and Policy Research, Centre for Health Research, Faculty of Business, Education, Law and Arts, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensla, nd-4350, Australia.
- School of Commerce, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD-4350, Australia.
- School of Social Sciences, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.
- Health Economics Research, Health Systems and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh.
- Department of Rajshahi, Health and Epidemiology Research, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh.
| | - Khorshed Alam
- Health Economics and Policy Research, Centre for Health Research, Faculty of Business, Education, Law and Arts, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensla, nd-4350, Australia
- School of Commerce, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD-4350, Australia
| | - Jeff Dunn
- Health Economics and Policy Research, Centre for Health Research, Faculty of Business, Education, Law and Arts, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensla, nd-4350, Australia
- Cancer Research Centre, Cancer Council Queensland, Fortitude Valley, Queensland, QLD, 4006, Australia
- Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, St Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia
| | - Jeff Gow
- Health Economics and Policy Research, Centre for Health Research, Faculty of Business, Education, Law and Arts, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensla, nd-4350, Australia
- School of Commerce, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD-4350, Australia
- School of Accounting, Economics and Finance, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 4000, South Africa
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Andrews CC, Siegel G, Smith S. Rehabilitation to Improve the Function and Quality of Life of Soft Tissue and Bony Sarcoma Patients. PATIENT-RELATED OUTCOME MEASURES 2020; 10:417-425. [PMID: 32099494 PMCID: PMC6997412 DOI: 10.2147/prom.s130183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Sarcomas are bone and soft tissue tumors that can have significant effects on patient function and quality of life. Like most malignancies, treatment includes a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical resection, all of which also carry risks and long-term effects. A multidisciplinary rehabilitation plan can help minimize symptoms and sequelae which negatively affect the patient function and quality of life, including pain, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, radiation fibrosis, activity restrictions following surgical excision, amputation, bowel and bladder dysfunction, and lymphedema. Patients should be evaluated by a rehabilitation specialist at any point during their diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship phase to determine appropriate interventions to minimize the impact of sarcomas and their treatment on patient function and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody C Andrews
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Geoffrey Siegel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sean Smith
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Mahumud RA, Alam K, Dunn J, Gow J. The burden of chronic diseases among Australian cancer patients: Evidence from a longitudinal exploration, 2007-2017. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0228744. [PMID: 32049978 PMCID: PMC7015395 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0228744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer is a major public health concern in terms of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Several types of cancer patients suffer from chronic comorbid conditions that are a major clinical challenge for treatment and cancer management. The main objective of this study was to investigate the distribution of the burden of chronic comorbid conditions and associated predictors among cancer patients in Australia over the period of 2007-2017. METHODS The study employed a prospective longitudinal design using data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey. The number of chronic comorbid conditions was measured for each respondent. The longitudinal effect was captured using a fixed-effect negative binomial regression model, which predicted the potential factors that played a significant role in the occurrence of chronic comorbid conditions. RESULTS Sixty-one percent of cancer patients experienced at least one chronic disease over the period, and 21% of patients experienced three or more chronic diseases. Age (>65 years old) (incidence rate ratio, IRR = 1.15; 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.05, 1.40), inadequate levels of physical activity (IRR = 1.25; 95% CI: 1.09, 1.59), patients who suffered from extreme health burden (IRR = 2.30; 95% CI: 1.73, 3.05) or moderate health burden (IRR = 1.90; 95% CI: 1.45, 2.48), and patients living in the poorest households (IRR = 1.21; 95% CI: 1.11, 1.29) were significant predictors associated with a higher risk of chronic comorbid conditions. CONCLUSIONS A large number of cancer patients experience an extreme burden of chronic comorbid conditions and the different dimensions of these in cancer survivors have the potential to affect the trajectory of their cancer burden. It is also significant for health care providers, including physical therapists and oncologists, who must manage the unique problems that challenge this population and who should advocate for prevention and evidence-based interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashidul Alam Mahumud
- Health Economics and Policy Research, Centre for Health, Informatics and Economic Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- School of Commerce, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- Health Economics Research, Health Systems and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Health and Epidemiology Research, Department of Statistics, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Khorshed Alam
- Health Economics and Policy Research, Centre for Health, Informatics and Economic Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- School of Commerce, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jeff Dunn
- Health Economics and Policy Research, Centre for Health, Informatics and Economic Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- Cancer Research Centre, Cancer Council Queensland, Fortitude Valley, Queensland, Australia
- Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeff Gow
- Health Economics and Policy Research, Centre for Health, Informatics and Economic Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- School of Commerce, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- School of Accounting, Economics and Finance, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Stapelfeldt CM, Duijts SFA, Horsboel TA, Momsen AMH, Andersen NT, Larsen FB, Friis K, Nielsen CV. Educational attainment and work disability in cancer survivors: Do diagnosis and comorbidity affect this association? Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2020; 29:e13228. [PMID: 31999396 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To study whether educational attainment had less impact on work disability in cancer survivors than in individuals without cancer. To study whether comorbidity had a higher impact on work disability in low-educated cancer survivors than in high-educated and whether this impact differed when compared with individuals without cancer. METHODS Linkage of population-based public health survey data and the Danish Cancer Registry formed two groups: cancer survivors (n = 3,514) and cancer-free individuals (n = 171,262). In logistic regression models, the risk of experiencing an 8-week sick leave spell and the granting of disability pension within a 3-year follow-up period was studied in three educational levels and whether these associations were modified by history of cancer and comorbidity. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) are reported. RESULTS Non-stratified adjusted risk of experiencing an 8-week sick leave spell (OR: 1.41, 95% CI (1.33-1.49)) or being granted a disability pension (OR: 1.61, 95% CI (1.31-1.97)) was significantly higher in low-educated than in high-educated respondents. Cancer or comorbidity did not significantly interact with education on the risk of work disability. CONCLUSIONS A moderate impact of low education on future work disability was found for all respondents, neither history of cancer nor comorbidity modified this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina M Stapelfeldt
- Section of Clinical Social Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark.,DEFACTUM Social & Health Services and Labour Market, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Saskia F A Duijts
- Department of General Practice, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Trine A Horsboel
- Survivorship and Inequality in Cancer, Danish Cancer Society, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Niels T Andersen
- Section of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Finn B Larsen
- DEFACTUM Social & Health Services and Labour Market, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Karina Friis
- DEFACTUM Social & Health Services and Labour Market, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Claus V Nielsen
- Section of Clinical Social Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark.,DEFACTUM Social & Health Services and Labour Market, Aarhus C, Denmark.,Regional Hospital West Jutland, Herning, Denmark
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12
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Insights in work rehabilitation after minimally invasive esophagectomy. Surg Endosc 2019; 33:3457-3463. [PMID: 30694387 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-018-06626-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about work rehabilitation after totally minimally invasive esophagectomy. The goal of this study was to further objectify the postoperative work rehabilitation. Not only duration of sick leave, but also the extent of return to work will be assessed. METHODS This retrospective multicenter study was conveyed between January 2009 and April 2014. Eighty-six preoperatively employed patients were included. Data regarding patients' preoperative occupation, actual job status, and postoperative duration until return to work were retrieved. Potential prognostic factors for work rehabilitation were analyzed. Complaints that could impede rehabilitation were questioned (based on EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-OES18). Work activity, defined as either partially or fully resumed professional activity as compared to the preoperative status, was measured at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months postoperatively. RESULTS At 6-month follow-up, 40.2% of patients reached partial and 14.6% had full professional recovery and after 12 months 28.2% and 40.8%, respectively. After 18 months, a stagnation was seen (19.0% partial; 43.1% full recovery). Median follow-up was 18 months (IQR 12-18). Self-employment was a significant predictor for full professional recovery (p = 0.005, OR 2.45 95% CI 1.32-4.56). The median time to full professional recovery was shorter for this group. The most common complaint among all patients was fatigue. This complaint did not significantly differ between working (fully and partially) and non-working groups (p = 0.727). CONCLUSIONS Only approximately 40% of patients reached full professional recovery 1 year after totally minimally invasive esophagectomy. Barely any progression toward return to work was seen after 1 year postoperatively. Roughly 30% of patients never returned to work. Self-employed workers had a higher percentage of restoration to full professional activity, as well as shorter duration to return. These findings highlight the importance of adequate counseling of patients in order to prepare them for the impact of this procedure on professional activities.
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13
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Cuervo-Díaz DE, Moreno-Angarita M. [Work Disability Prevention: an area of study needed to address the Colombian system challenges in occupational risks]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 19:567-573. [PMID: 30183864 DOI: 10.15446/rsap.v19n4.57350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This paper aims to address the importance of study, introduce and implement the issue of prevention and management of work disability in Colombia. Text structure responses to questions ranging from the current situation of workers and their health in Colombia, from the importance of studying this subject; the approach of the determinants of work disability; its definition, to the challenges settled for different actors in the Sistema Nacional de Seguridad Social involved in the process of prevention, care, rehabilitation, compensation, and return home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana E Cuervo-Díaz
- DC: MD. Especialista en Administración de Salud Ocupacional y Derecho de Seguridad Social. Ph. D. Salud Pública. Médica principal de la Junta Nacional de Calificación de Invalidez - Colombia. Profesora de cátedra de la Facultad de Derecho de la Universidad Javeriana. Bogotá. Miembro del grupo investigación Discapacidad, Políticas y Justicia Social. Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Marisol Moreno-Angarita
- MM: Fdga. Ph. D. Salud Pública. Profesora titular del Departamento del Comunicación Humana, Facultad de Medicina. Universidad Nacional de Colombia. Director del grupo de investigación "Discapacidad, Políticas y Justicia Social". Bogotá, Colombia.
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Kiasuwa Mbengi RL, Nicolaie AM, Goetghebeur E, Otter R, Mortelmans K, Missinnne S, Arbyn M, Bouland C, de Brouwer C. Assessing factors associated with long-term work disability after cancer in Belgium: a population-based cohort study using competing risks analysis with a 7-year follow-up. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e014094. [PMID: 29455161 PMCID: PMC5855469 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-014094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The number of workers with cancer has dramatically increasing worldwide. One of the main priorities is to preserve their quality of life and the sustainability of social security systems. We have carried out this study to assess factors associated with the ability to work after cancer. Such insight should help with the planning of rehabilitation needs and tailored programmes. PARTICIPANTS We conducted this register-based cohort study using individual data from the Belgian Disability Insurance. Data on 15 543 socially insured Belgian people who entered into the long-term work disability between 2007 and 2011 due to cancer were used. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES We estimated the duration of work disability using Kaplan-Meier and the cause-specific cumulative incidence of ability to work stratified by age, gender, occupational class and year of entering the work disability system for 11 cancer sites using the Fine and Gray model allowing for competing risks. RESULTS The overall median time of work disability was 1.59 years (95% CI 1.52 to 1.66), ranging from 0.75 to 4.98 years. By the end of follow-up, more than one-third of the disabled cancer survivors were able to work (35%). While a large proportion of the women were able to work at the end of follow-up, the men who were able to work could do so sooner. Being women, white collar, young and having haematological, male genital or breast cancers were factors with the bestlikelihood to be able to return to work. CONCLUSION Good prognostic factors for the ability to work were youth, woman, white collar and having breast, male genital or haematological cancers. Reviewing our results together with the cancer incidence predictions up to 2025 offers a high value for social security and rehabilitation planning and for ascertaining patients' perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Régine Levo Kiasuwa Mbengi
- Belgian Cancer Centre, Scientific Insitute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
- Research Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health, Brussels School of Public Health, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ESP-ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Renee Otter
- Belgian Cancer Centre, Scientific Insitute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Sarah Missinnne
- Belgian Cancer Centre, Scientific Insitute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marc Arbyn
- Unit of Cancer Epidemiology, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Catherine Bouland
- Research Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health, Brussels School of Public Health, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ESP-ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christophe de Brouwer
- Research Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health, Brussels School of Public Health, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ESP-ULB), Brussels, Belgium
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15
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Yagil D, Eshed-Lavi N, Carel R, Cohen M. Health care professionals' perspective on return to work in cancer survivors. Psychooncology 2018; 27:1206-1212. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.4649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dana Yagil
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences; University of Haifa; Haifa Israel
| | - Nofar Eshed-Lavi
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences; University of Haifa; Haifa Israel
| | - Rafi Carel
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences; University of Haifa; Haifa Israel
| | - Miri Cohen
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences; University of Haifa; Haifa Israel
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16
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Zaman ACGNM, Tytgat KMAJ, van Hezel S, Klinkenbijl JHG, de Boer AGEM, Frings-Dresen MHW. Development of a tailored work-related support intervention for gastrointestinal cancer patients. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2017; 27:e12782. [PMID: 29024185 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Aim is the development of a work-related support intervention, tailored to the severity of work-related problems of patients diagnosed with gastrointestinal (GI) cancer treated with curative intent. Two methods were used: (1) Work-related problems were identified from the literature and submitted to an expert panel during a modified Delphi study. Experts allocated work-related problems into degrees of severity: mild, severe or complex. In addition, experts indicated which health care professional should provide the tailored support: (2) These outcomes were combined with existing interventions to design the tailored intervention. Semi-structured interviews with experts were conducted to assess whether the intervention was comprehensive, and feasible for daily practice. A decision diagram measuring severity of work-related problems was developed based on the modified Delphi study with 44 experts, encompassing social, disease and occupational problems. Based on the degree of severity, support was provided by: an oncological nurse (mild), oncological occupational physician (severe) or multidisciplinary team (complex). The intervention encompassed three individual meetings in the clinical setting and was considered comprehensive and feasible by 12 experts. The intervention is innovative in combining oncological and occupational care in the clinic and being tailored to the needs of GI cancer patients with specific work-related problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Claire G N M Zaman
- Department Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kristien M A J Tytgat
- Department of gastroenterology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne van Hezel
- Department Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jean H G Klinkenbijl
- Department of Surgery, Gelre Hospitals, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands.,University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Angela G E M de Boer
- Department Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monique H W Frings-Dresen
- Department Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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17
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Endo M, Haruyama Y, Takahashi M, Nishiura C, Kojimahara N, Yamaguchi N. Returning to work after sick leave due to cancer: a 365-day cohort study of Japanese cancer survivors. J Cancer Surviv 2015; 10:320-9. [PMID: 26318185 PMCID: PMC4801999 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-015-0478-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose More employees are experiencing a cancer diagnosis during their working-age years, yet there have been no large-scale Japanese studies investigating sick leave due to cancer. We clarified differences in the cumulative partial and full return to work (RTW) rates between different cancer types among Japanese cancer survivors. Methods Data on Japanese employees who experienced an episode of sick leave due to clinically certified cancer diagnosed between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2011 were obtained from an occupational health register. Subject outcomes within the 365-day period following their initial day of sick leave were utilized for this study. We investigated the cumulative partial/full and full RTW rates by using survival analysis with competing risks and predictors of time to RTW by a Fine-Gray proportional hazard regression model. Results One thousand two hundred seventy-eight subjects (1033 males and 245 females) experienced their first episode of sick leave due to cancer during the 12-year follow-up period. Of the subjects, 47.1 % returned to work full time within 6 months of their initial day of sick leave absence, and 62.3 % by 12 months. The cumulative RTW rate varied significantly by cancer type. There were considerable differences in the range of cumulative full RTW rates between the two categories (“lower full RTW rate” groups (“lung,” “hepatic, pancreatic,” “esophageal,” and “blood” cancer groups) vs. “higher full RTW rate” groups (“gastric,” “intestinal,” “breast,” “female genital,” “male genital,” “urinary”): 6.3 to 14.3 % vs. 11.4 to 28.3 % at 60 days, 10.6 to 22.4 % vs. 27.0 to 50.0 % at 120 days, 21.3 to 34.7 % vs. 38.5 to 65.4 % at 180 days, 34.3 to 42.9 % vs. 66.0 to 79.5 % at 365 days). Additionally, older age may be associated with a longer time to full RTW. Conclusions More than half of the subjects returned to work full-time within the 365-day period following their initial day of sick leave, with cumulative RTW rates varying by cancer type. Older employees may require a longer time to full RTW. Implications of Cancer Survivors It is very important for companies (especially small- and medium-sized companies) to establish and improve their RTW support system for cancer survivors, with knowledge that the median time to RTW is expected to be at least a few months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoki Endo
- Department of Public Health, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawadacho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan, 162-8666.
| | - Yasuo Haruyama
- Department of Public Health, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Miyako Takahashi
- Division of Cancer Survivorship Research, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chihiro Nishiura
- Department of Safety and Health, Tokyo Gas Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Noriko Kojimahara
- Department of Public Health, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawadacho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan, 162-8666
| | - Naohito Yamaguchi
- Department of Public Health, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawadacho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan, 162-8666
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18
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Young AE, Besen E, Choi Y. The importance, measurement and practical implications of worker's expectations for return to work. Disabil Rehabil 2015; 37:1808-16. [PMID: 25374043 DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2014.979299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Workers' own expectations for return to work consistently predict work status. To advance the understanding of the relationship between RTW expectations and outcomes, we reviewed existing measures to determine those which we felt were the most likely to capture the construct. METHOD A comprehensive search of the work-disability rehabilitation literature was undertaken. The review of the measures was conducted in three steps: first, a review of terminology; second, an examination of whether a time reference was included; third, an evaluation of ease of comprehension, and applicability across contexts. RESULTS A total of 42 different measures were identified. One of the most striking findings was the inconsistency in terminology. Measures were also limited by not including a time reference. Problems were also identified with regards to ease of understanding, utility of response options, and applicability in a wide variety of research and applied settings. CONCLUSIONS Most previously used measures contain elements that potentially limit utility. However, it would seem that further development can overcome these, resulting in a tool that provides risk prediction information, and an opportunity to start a conversation to help identify problems that might negatively impact a worker's movement through the RTW process and the outcomes achieved. Implications for Rehabilitation Return to work is an integral part of workplace injury management. The capture of RTW expectations affords a way to identify the potential for less than optimal RTW processes and outcomes. A mismatch between an injured worker's expectations and what other stakeholders might expect suggests that efforts could be made to determine what is causing the injured worker's concerns. Once underling issues are identified, work can be put into resolving these so that the worker's return to the workplace is not impeded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda E Young
- a Liberty Mutual Research Institute for Safety, Center for Disability Research , Hopkinton , MA , USA
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Ghasempour M, Rahmani A, Davoodi A, Sheikhalipour Z, Ziaeei JE, Abri F. Return to work and its relation to financial distress among Iranian cancer survivors. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2015; 16:2257-61. [PMID: 25824747 DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2015.16.6.2257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Return to work after treatment completion is important for both cancer survivors and society. Financial distress is one of the factors that may influence the return to work in cancer survivors. However, this relationship has not been well investigated. This study aimed to determine the rate of return to work and its relation to financial distress among Iranian cancer survivors. MATERIALS AND METHODS This descriptive-correlational study was undertaken among 165 cancer survivors who completed their initial treatments and had no signs of active cancer. The Return to Work questionnaire and Financial Distress/Financial Well-Being Scale were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software. RESULTS After initial treatments, 120 cancer survivors (72%) had returned to work, of which 50 patients (42%) had returned to full-time work and 70 (58%) reduced their work hours and returned to part-time work. Cancer survivors also reported high levels of financial distress. In addition, the financial distress was lower among patients who had returned completely to work, in comparison to patients who had quit working for cancer-related reasons (p=0.001) or returned to work as part-time workers (p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS The findings showed that a high percent of Iranian cancer survivors had not returned to their jobs or considerably reduced working hours after treatment completion. Accordingly, due to high levels of financial distress experienced by participants and its relation to return to work, designing rehabilitation programs to facilitate cancer survivor return to work should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Ghasempour
- Medical Surgical Department, Nursing and Midwifery Faculty, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran E-mail :
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Ebrahim S, Malachowski C, Kamal El Din M, Mulla SM, Montoya L, Bance S, Busse JW. Measures of patients' expectations about recovery: a systematic review. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2015; 25:240-55. [PMID: 25100443 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-014-9535-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients' expectations regarding their prognosis has been shown to affect recovery. We completed a systematic review to identify measures that assess patients' expectations of recovery. METHODS Eligible studies explored the association between patients' expectations of recovery, and return to work or claim resolution. We searched electronic databases (MEDLINE and PSYCInfo) from inception to June 21, 2014, bibliographies of eligible studies, relevant systematic reviews and our personal files. Reviewers determined study eligibility and study quality, and completed data extraction. RESULTS Of 14,509 unique citations, 46 studies were eligible with majority of the studies (n = 27; 59 %) rated as low quality, primarily due to substantial missing data and inappropriate adjustment for age, gender and illness severity in their regression models. We identified 5 measures and 41 individual items assessing recovery expectations. Three of seven (43 %) studies using a measure to assess recovery expectations reported psychometric properties, with only one reporting both reliability and construct validity. Only two measures (Expectations of Recovery Scale and the Work-related Recovery Expectations Questionnaire) were externally validated in different populations. Overall, 44 (96 %) studies found that patient recovery expectations was a significant predictor of return to work or sick leave/disability claim resolution. CONCLUSIONS Very few studies assessing recovery expectations use a psychometrically valid measure. Current evidence suggests that patients with lower recovery expectations are less likely to resolve their disability claim or return to work versus patients with higher recovery expectations. Further validation of existing measures for assessing patient recovery expectations, or development of a new measure that addresses the limitations of existing ones, is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanil Ebrahim
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada,
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Murray K, Lam KBH, McLoughlin DC, Sadhra SS. Predictors of return to work in cancer survivors in the Royal Air Force. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2015; 25:153-159. [PMID: 25038986 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-014-9516-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Return to work (RTW) is beneficial for cancer survivors, employers and society. However, little is known about predictors of RTW in the military environment. METHODS A cohort of 194 Royal Air Force (RAF) personnel aged 18-58 who survived primary cancer treatment between 2001 and 2011 were followed up for 18 months. Information was obtained from occupational health and primary care records. Personal, occupational and clinical predictors of RTW were identified by Cox proportional hazards regression. RESULTS The median sickness absence before RTW was 107 days. Six months after diagnosis 54 % of participants had RTW, and reached 80 % by 12 months. Time taken to RTW was predicted by age at diagnosis, rank, trade group, pre-diagnosis sickness absence, site of cancer, treatment modality, and prognosis. RTW at 18 months were predicted by higher rank (HR = 2.31; 95 % CI 1.46-3.65), and having melanoma (9.75; 4.97-19.13). Those receiving chemotherapy were significantly less likely to have RTW compared to other treatment modalities (0.18; 0.10-0.32). CONCLUSIONS Rank, cancer diagnostic group, and treatment modality are the most important predictors of RTW in cancer survivors in the RAF. These predictors can be used to inform rehabilitation programmes and decisions on RTW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Murray
- Royal Air Force Centre of Aviation Medicine, Henlow, SG16 6DN, UK
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van Muijen P, Duijts SFA, Bonefaas-Groenewoud K, van der Beek AJ, Anema JR. Factors associated with work disability in employed cancer survivors at 24-month sick leave. BMC Cancer 2014; 14:236. [PMID: 24693855 PMCID: PMC3976500 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-14-236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Identification of factors associated with work disability in cancer survivors on long term sick leave may support these survivors in choosing effective measures to facilitate vocational rehabilitation and return to work. Therefore, this study aims to disclose factors associated with work disability in cancer survivors at 24 months of sick leave. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted. The study population consisted of employed sick-listed cancer survivors, aged between 18 and 64 years. They received a questionnaire at 24-month sick leave, the maximum period of sick leave allowed by Dutch social security legislation. Data were linked with the outcome of work disability assessment, as performed by the Dutch social security agency. A hierarchical multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with work disability. Results Data of 351 valid cases were analysed. The multivariate analysis showed that, for cancer survivors at 24-month sick leave, Dutch nationality, higher education, receiving hormone therapy, metastatic disease, physical limitations and low self-reported work ability were associated with an increased risk for work disability. Conclusions This study identified factors associated with work disability of employed cancer survivors at 24 months of sick leave. The results of the current study may serve as a starting point to investigate the course of work disability beyond the maximum period of 24 months of sick leave. In order to enhance work participation of cancer survivors beyond this term, prospective data on work disability in the Netherlands are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter van Muijen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, EMGO + Institute/VU University Medical Center, P,O, Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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