1
|
Facilitating Factors and Barriers in the Return to Work of Working Women Survivors of Breast Cancer: A Qualitative Study. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030874. [PMID: 36765831 PMCID: PMC9913437 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030874] [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: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have identified the main barriers and facilitators that breast cancer survivors experience in the return to work (RTW). The authors conducted a qualitative study using focus group discussions with a group of female non-metastatic breast cancer survivors (n = 6), a group of health professionals from different medical specialties (n = 8), and a third group of company managers mainly composed of human resources managers (n = 7). The study was carried out between March and December 2021 in Zaragoza (Spain). Transcripts were analyzed using inductive content analysis to identify work-related barriers and facilitators and coded by the research team. Barriers identified included physical and cognitive symptoms, psychosocial problems, lack of knowledge and coordination (health professional, patients, and managers), legal vacuum, physical change, time constraints, work characteristics (lower skilled jobs), unsupportive supervisors and coworkers, family problems and self-demand. Facilitators included family and work support, physical activity and rehabilitation, personalized attention, interdisciplinary collaboration, legal advice for workers, knowledge about breast cancer in companies, positive aspects of work, elaboration of protocols for RTW in women with breast cancer. RTW in working women with breast cancer requires a personalized and holistic view that includes the perspectives of patients, healthcare professionals and company managers.
Collapse
|
2
|
Mazzi MA, Perlini C, Deledda G, Ghilardi A, Buizza C, Bottacini A, Goss C, Del Piccolo L. Employment status and information needs of patients with breast cancer: a multicentre cross-sectional study of first oncology consultations. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e038543. [PMID: 32994250 PMCID: PMC7526300 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-038543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the early information needs of women with a recent diagnosis of breast cancer (BC) according to their employment status. DESIGN Cross-sectional. SETTING Secondary-care patients attending three outpatient oncology clinics in northern Italy. PARTICIPANTS 377 women with a recent diagnosis of early-stage, non-metastatic BC aged 18-75 were recruited. Of them, 164 were employed, 103 non-employed and 110 retired. OUTCOME MEASURES The first consultation visit with an oncologist was audio-recorded and analysed for the number and type of questions asked. Linear regression models considering consultations' and patients' characteristics as confounding variables were applied. RESULTS Employed patients asked significantly more questions than non-employed and retired patients (17 vs 13 and 14; F=6.04; p<0.01). When age and education were included in the statistical model, the significance of employment status was rearranged among all the variables and was no more significant (b=1.2, p=0.44). Employed women asked more questions concerning disease prognosis (0.7 vs 0.4 and 0.6; F=3.5; p=0.03), prevention (1.4 vs 0.6 and 0.7; F=10.7; p<0.01), illness management (7.2 vs 6 and 5.4; F=3.8; p=0.02) and social functioning (37% vs 18% and 20%; χ2=14.3; p<0.01) compared with the other two groups. Finally, they attended more frequently the consultation alone (37% vs 18% and 25%; χ2=10.90, p<0.01), were younger (50 vs 58 and 67 years; F=63.8; p<0.01) and with a higher level of education (77% vs 27% and 45%; χ2=68.2; p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Employment status is related to the type of questions asked during the first consultation. Also, it interrelates with other patients' characteristics like age and education in determining the number of questions asked. Patients' characteristics including employment status could be considered in tailoring work and social-related information provided during the first oncological consultation. Future studies could explore potential differences in information needs according to the different kinds of work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Angela Mazzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Psychology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Cinzia Perlini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Psychology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Deledda
- Clinical Psychological Service, UO of Clinical Psychology, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalisation and Health Care (IRCCS) "Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria", Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
| | - Alberto Ghilardi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Clinical Psychology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Chiara Buizza
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Clinical Psychology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bottacini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Psychology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Claudia Goss
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Psychology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Lidia Del Piccolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Psychology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hamood R, Hamood H, Merhasin I, Keinan-Boker L. Work Transitions in Breast Cancer Survivors and Effects on Quality of Life. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2019; 29:336-349. [PMID: 29948472 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-018-9789-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Work transitions among breast cancer survivors remain an underexplored area. We aimed to examine prevalence and determinants of changes in work status, and the effect of these changes on quality of life of breast cancer survivors. Methods A cross-sectional study of 410 female breast cancer survivors randomly drawn from a larger study sample pool (n = 2644), members of "Leumit" healthcare fund, who were diagnosed with primary nonmetastatic invasive breast cancer in the years 2002-2012. The study questionnaire included questions on work characteristics and health-related quality-of-life and was completed by all women contacted. Work transition was defined as a downgrade (from full-time to part-time), termination, or retirement, and was contrasted to no change in work status (retention of full-time or part-time). Work transition was assessed at two intervals: between breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, and between breast cancer diagnosis and time of the survey. Results A total of 206 breast cancer survivors (50%) were employed prior to their diagnosis, of whom 12% stopped working, and 79% downgraded to part-time during treatment. At the time of survey (mean 8 ± 3 years post-diagnosis), 33% of those employed prior to their diagnosis stopped working or retired, 48% downgraded to part-time, and 19% had no change in their work situation. Work transition between diagnosis and time of the survey was significantly associated with poorer quality-of-life. In multivariable analyses, work transition between diagnosis and time of the survey was positively associated with being immigrant compared to native-born Israeli (odds ratio (OR) 4.65; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.91-11.37; P = .001), and inversely with education level of college or over compared to high school or less (OR 0.27; 95% CI 0.09-0.86; P = .026). Conclusions Breast cancer survivors with characteristics pointing at underprivileged social circumstances more often experienced changes in work status after surviving breast cancer, irrespective of diagnosis, comorbidity or treatment. Breast cancer patients with immigrant status and/or lower educational attainment need more support to be able to keep their job.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rola Hamood
- School of Public Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Hatem Hamood
- School of Public Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
- Leumit Health Services, Haharoshet 13, Karmiel, Israel.
| | | | - Lital Keinan-Boker
- School of Public Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Ministry of Health, Israel Center for Disease Control, Ramat Gan, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Greidanus M, de Boer A, de Rijk A, Tiedtke C, Dierckx de Casterlé B, Frings-Dresen M, Tamminga S. Perceived employer-related barriers and facilitators for work participation of cancer survivors: A systematic review of employers' and survivors' perspectives. Psychooncology 2017; 27:725-733. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.4514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M.A. Greidanus
- Academic Medical Center; University of Amsterdam, Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - A.G.E.M. de Boer
- Academic Medical Center; University of Amsterdam, Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - A.E. de Rijk
- Department of Social Medicine, Research Institute Primary Care and Public Health (CAPHRI), Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences; Maastricht University; Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - C.M. Tiedtke
- Department of Social Medicine, Research Institute Primary Care and Public Health (CAPHRI), Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences; Maastricht University; Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - B. Dierckx de Casterlé
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Academic Center for Nursing and Midwifery; Katholieke Universiteit Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - M.H.W. Frings-Dresen
- Academic Medical Center; University of Amsterdam, Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - S.J. Tamminga
- Academic Medical Center; University of Amsterdam, Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Stergiou-Kita M, Pritlove C, Kirsh B. The “Big C”—stigma, cancer, and workplace discrimination. J Cancer Surviv 2016; 10:1035-1050. [DOI: 10.1007/s11764-016-0547-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
6
|
Stergiou-Kita M, Pritlove C, Holness DL, Kirsh B, van Eerd D, Duncan A, Jones J. Am I ready to return to work? Assisting cancer survivors to determine work readiness. J Cancer Surviv 2016; 10:699-710. [PMID: 26816271 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-016-0516-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A critical initial step in work re-entry involves the determination of work readiness. Cancer survivors have requested increased health care provider involvement in their work readiness decisions. However, there has been no exploration of current practices in determining work readiness, and thus no specific recommendations regarding how to assist survivors in answering the question: Am I ready to return to work? METHODS To explore return to work following cancer and the workplace supports survivors require, we completed an exploratory qualitative study. We conducted semi-structured interviews with (i) cancer survivors (n = 16) and (ii) health care/vocational service providers (n = 16). Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Themes specific to work readiness are discussed. RESULTS Three key processes were deemed relevant to determining work readiness by health care providers and survivors: (1) assessing functional abilities in relation to job demands; (2) identifying survivor strengths and barriers to return to work; and (3) identifying supports available in the workplace. Challenges to work readiness determinations, were described by survivors and providers, related to: (i) the complexity of cancer, (ii) the accuracy of work readiness determinations, and (iii) the lack of established processes for addressing work goals. CONCLUSIONS Health care providers need to work collaboratively with survivors to determine if they are physically, cognitively, and emotionally ready to return to work, and with workplaces to determine if they are prepared to provide the necessary supports. Further stakeholder collaboration is also warranted. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Supports from health care providers in determining work readiness can ensure survivors do not return to work either "too early" or "too late."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Stergiou-Kita
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, 500 University Ave., Toronto, ON, M5G 1V7, Canada. .,Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Institute of Work and Health, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Cheryl Pritlove
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Cancer Rehabilitation and Survivorship Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - D Linn Holness
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Occupational and Environmental Health and Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bonnie Kirsh
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, 500 University Ave., Toronto, ON, M5G 1V7, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dwayne van Eerd
- Institute of Work and Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Andrea Duncan
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, 500 University Ave., Toronto, ON, M5G 1V7, Canada
| | - Jennifer Jones
- Cancer Rehabilitation and Survivorship Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Qualitative meta-synthesis of survivors’ work experiences and the development of strategies to facilitate return to work. J Cancer Surviv 2014; 8:657-70. [DOI: 10.1007/s11764-014-0377-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
8
|
Living with Advanced Breast Cancer among Ghanaian Women: Emotional and Psychosocial Experiences. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1155/2014/403473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the emotional and psychosocial experiences of Ghanaian women living with advanced breast cancer in the Kumasi metropolis. The study employed a qualitative exploratory descriptive design. Purposive sampling approach was used and data was saturated with 10 participants aged between 32 and 65 years. All interviews were audio-taped and transcribed. Data was analyzed concurrently based on the techniques of content analysis. Anonymity and confidentiality were ensured. Women experienced emotional reactions such as sadness, fear, and anxiety. Pain was severe and led to suicidal ideations. Women experienced lost hopes regarding their marriage, parenting, and work. They received support from their families, spouses, colleagues, health professionals, and spiritual leaders. Women coped by accepting the disease and surrendering to God and having the will to live. Five major themes described were emotional reactions, pain, lost hope, support, and coping. It was recommended that health care providers involved in breast cancer management should be trained to enhance effective and holistic care of women and their families. Also, patients with advanced disease should be given effective pain management and a multidisciplinary palliative care team should be instituted to care for the women.
Collapse
|
9
|
Yoo SH, Yun YH, Park S, Kim YA, Park SY, Bae DS, Nam JH, Park CT, Cho CH, Lee JM. The correlates of unemployment and its association with quality of life in cervical cancer survivors. J Gynecol Oncol 2013; 24:367-75. [PMID: 24167673 PMCID: PMC3805918 DOI: 10.3802/jgo.2013.24.4.367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2013] [Revised: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 07/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Little is known regarding cervical cancer survivors' employment status, which represents social integration of cancer survivors as a pivotal domain of long-term quality of life. The goal of this study was to assess the correlates of unemployment and evaluate the impact on the comprehensive quality of life in cervical cancer survivors. Methods We enrolled 858 cervical cancer survivors from the gynecologic oncology departments of multi-centers in Korea. Factors associated with unemployment were identified using multivariate logistic regression analyses. We assessed different health-related quality of life domains with multivariate-adjusted least-square means between cervical cancer survivors who currently work and do not. Results After diagnosis and treatment, the percentage of unemployed survivors increased from 50.6% to 72.8%. Lower income (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.97; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.38 to 2.81), medical aid (aOR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.05 to 2.38), two or more comorbidities (aOR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.12 to 2.90), current alcohol drinkers (aOR, 2.33; 95% CI, 1.54 to 3.52), and employed at the time of diagnosis (aOR, 10.72; 95% CI, 7.10 to 16.16) were significantly associated with unemployment. Non-working groups showed significant differences with respect to physical functioning, role functioning, depression, and existential well-being. Conclusion The proportion of unemployed cervical cancer survivors seems to increase, with low-income status and the presence of medical aid negatively being associated with employment, in addition to other comorbidities and previous working status. Effort should be made to secure the financial status of cervical cancer survivors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shin-Hye Yoo
- Department of Medical Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hubbard G, Gray NM, Ayansina D, Evans JMM, Kyle RG. Case management vocational rehabilitation for women with breast cancer after surgery: a feasibility study incorporating a pilot randomised controlled trial. Trials 2013; 14:175. [PMID: 23768153 PMCID: PMC3698180 DOI: 10.1186/1745-6215-14-175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is a paucity of methodologically robust vocational rehabilitation (VR) intervention trials. This study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of a VR trial of women with breast cancer to inform the development of a larger interventional study. Methods Women were recruited in Scotland and randomised to either a case management VR service or to usual care. Data were collected on eligibility, recruitment and attrition rates to assess trial feasibility, and interviews conducted to determine trial acceptability. Sick leave days (primary outcome) were self-reported via postal questionnaire every 4 weeks during the first 6 months post-surgery and at 12 months. Secondary outcome measures were change in employment pattern, quality of life and fatigue. Results Of the 1,114 women assessed for eligibility, 163 (15%) were eligible. The main reason for ineligibility was age (>65 years, n = 637, 67%). Of those eligible, 111 (68%) received study information, of which 23 (21%) consented to participate in the study. Data for 18 (78%) women were analysed (intervention: n = 7; control: n = 11). Participants in the intervention group reported, on average, 53 fewer days of sick leave over the first 6 months post-surgery than those in the control group; however, this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.122; 95% confidence interval −15.8, 122.0). No statistically significant differences were found for secondary outcomes. Interviews with trial participants indicated that trial procedures, including recruitment, randomisation and research instruments, were acceptable. Conclusions Conducting a pragmatic trial of effectiveness of a VR intervention among cancer survivors is both feasible and acceptable, but more research about the exact components of a VR intervention and choice of outcomes to measure effectiveness is required. VR to assist breast cancer patients in the return to work process is an important component of cancer survivorship plans. Trial registration ISRCTN29666484
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gill Hubbard
- Cancer Care Research Centre, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, University of Stirling, Highland Campus, Centre for Health Science, Old Perth Road, Inverness IV2 3JH, UK.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Quality of life, lifestyle behavior and employment experience: a comparison between young and midlife survivors of gynecology early stage cancers. Gynecol Oncol 2011; 124:444-51. [PMID: 22119994 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2011.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2011] [Revised: 11/14/2011] [Accepted: 11/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
GOALS To evaluate differences and changes in quality of life (QoL), lifestyle behavior and employment experience of young in comparison to midlife adults in response to early stage gynecologic cancer diagnoses. METHODS 263 patients, divided into two age groups (Group A: ≤ 45 and Group B: >45 years), were interviewed on their QoL, lifestyle behavior (dietary habits, tobacco and alcohol use, physical activity) and employment experience (employment status and working time) at diagnosis and within 4 years from the treatment. The QoL was evaluated by European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 (QLQ-C30) and its specific modules for each cancer type (in particular endometrium, cervix, ovarian and breast). RESULTS Global health status was significantly different between the two groups. In the younger age group a more relevant cancer interference on family life and social activities and a greater impact on perception of health status have been observed. Young women were more affected by fatigue, constipation, gastrointestinal symptoms, lymphedema, poor body image and impaired sexuality. Cancer diagnosis had a major negative impact on employment of younger patients. Conversely, younger patients had overall better health behavior. They reported a higher daily intake of fruits and vegetables, along with lower alcohol consumption, furthermore they were a little more physically active than midlife adults. CONCLUSIONS To enhance quality of life and to promote healthy lifestyle behavior of female cancer patients, particularly in younger age, it is essential to assure multidisciplinary approaches with specific medical intervention and psychosocial supports. Indeed, midlife adults seem to have a more rapid adaptive tendency to return towards levels of well-being, following cancer diagnosis and treatment, than younger patients.
Collapse
|
12
|
Clarke TC, Soler-Vila H, Lee DJ, Arheart KL, Ocasio MA, Leblanc WG, Fleming LE. Working with cancer: health and disability disparities among employed cancer survivors in the U.S. Prev Med 2011; 53:331-4. [PMID: 21884724 PMCID: PMC3208802 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2011.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2011] [Revised: 07/12/2011] [Accepted: 07/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Approximately 40% of Americans annually diagnosed with cancer are working-age adults. Using a nationally representative database, we characterized differences in health status and occupation of working cancer survivors and persons without cancer. METHODS Cross-sectional data pooled from the 1997-2009 US National Health Interview Survey for adults with self-reported physician-diagnosed cancer (n=22,952) and those without (n=358,495), were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare the health and disability status of employed cancer survivors across occupational sectors relative to workers without a cancer history and unemployed cancer survivors. RESULTS Relative to workers with no cancer history, cancer survivors were more likely (OR; 95%CI) to be white-collar workers and less likely to be service workers. Working cancer survivors were significantly less likely than unemployed survivors, but more likely than workers with no cancer history, to report poor-fair health (0.25; 0.24-0.26) and (2.06; 1.96-2.17) respectively, and ≥ 2 functional limitations (0.37; 0.35-0.38) and (1.72; 1.64-1.80) respectively. Among employed cancer survivors, blue-collar workers reported worse health outcomes, yet they reported fewer workdays missed than white-collar workers. CONCLUSION Blue-collar cancer survivors are working with high levels of poor health and disability. These findings support the need for workplace accommodations for cancer survivors in all occupational sectors, especially blue-collar workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tainya C Clarke
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nilsson M, Olsson M, Wennman-Larsen A, Petersson LM, Alexanderson K. Return to work after breast cancer: Women’s experiences of encounters with different stakeholders. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2011; 15:267-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2011.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2010] [Revised: 03/08/2011] [Accepted: 03/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
14
|
Frazier LM, Miller VA, Horbelt DV, Delmore JE, Miller BE, Paschal AM. Comparison of focus groups on cancer and employment conducted face to face or by telephone. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2010; 20:617-27. [PMID: 20142606 PMCID: PMC2858253 DOI: 10.1177/1049732310361466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Findings from telephone focus groups have not been compared previously to findings from face-to-face focus groups. We conducted four telephone focus groups and five face-to-face focus groups in which a single moderator used the same open-ended questions and discussion facilitation techniques. This comparison was part of a larger study to gain a better understanding of employment experiences after diagnosis of gynecologic cancer. Offering the telephone option made it easier to recruit women from rural areas and geographically distant cities. Interaction between participants occurred in both types of focus group. Content analysis revealed that similar elements of the employment experience after cancer diagnosis were described by telephone and face-to-face participants. Participants disclosed certain emotionally sensitive experiences only in the telephone focus groups. Telephone focus groups provide useful data and can reduce logistical barriers to research participation. Visual anonymity might help some participants feel more comfortable discussing certain personal issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda M Frazier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Wichita, 1010 N. Kansas Ave., Wichita, KS 67214, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Frazier LM, Miller VA, Miller BE, Horbelt DV, Delmore JE, Ahlers-Schmidt CR. Cancer-related tasks involving employment: opportunities for clinical assistance. THE JOURNAL OF SUPPORTIVE ONCOLOGY 2009; 7:229-236. [PMID: 20380331 PMCID: PMC2855160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Many cancer survivors experience unmet psychosocial needs related to their jobs, and women often fare worse than men in this regard. However, little research exists on ways to assist patients with cancer in preventing or managing common job problems. We conducted focus groups and a survey among 73 women who were employed at the time of presentation of a gynecologic cancer. We compared the findings with existing recommendations and professional standards for occupational rehabilitation. Participants described different cancer-related employment tasks in three time periods: just after diagnosis, during primary treatment, and after primary treatment is completed. The more difficult tasks included communicating with supervisors and coworkers, determining company policies, applying for employer-sponsored benefits, handling finances, managing symptoms on returning to work, finding effective solutions to cancer-related job problems, leaving the job with dignity if too sick or if the job ended, and making career plans. The cancer care team may be able to help meet the psychosocial needs of employed cancer survivors by screening for job concerns, providing information, formulating a return-to-work plan, treating symptoms, consulting with professionals who have employment-related expertise, and giving other forms of assistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda M Frazier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, 1010 N. Kansas Avenue, Wichita, KS 67214-3199, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Surbone A, Baider L, Weitzman TS, Brames MJ, Rittenberg CN, Johnson J. Psychosocial care for patients and their families is integral to supportive care in cancer: MASCC position statement. Support Care Cancer 2009; 18:255-63. [PMID: 19609571 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-009-0693-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2009] [Accepted: 06/24/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This position paper, written on behalf of the MASCC Psychosocial Study Group, reviews the most common psychosocial concerns and needs of cancer patients during all phases of the cancer continuum, from diagnosis to death or survivorship. Developments in psychosocial care at both individual and systems levels are surveyed and summarized, along with gaps in knowledge and research and needed improvements in the dissemination and application of acquired knowledge and expertise. The roles of culture, spirituality, and religion as part of psychosocial care are reviewed, along with families' and caregivers' specific psychosocial concerns and needs, and areas of needed psychosocial interventions in supportive cancer care. Deficits in recognizing and meeting patients' psychosocial needs at the system level are examined, and international guidelines and models of psychosocial care are reviewed, including their potential applications to local contexts. The paper calls for a shift to a new paradigm of care through adoption of an integrated approach to identify and meet the psychosocial needs of cancer patients and survivors as part of supportive care worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Surbone
- Department of Medicine, New York University Medical School, New York, NY, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|