“It’s a struggle”: a qualitative investigation of relations between cancer-related fatigue and work outcomes

PURPOSE: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) has been associated with various adverse work outcomes in quantitative research. However, there is limited understanding regarding how and why these outcomes arise for survivors experiencing fatigue. In response, this qualitative study explores survivors' narrative accounts to understand relations between CRF and work outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fourteen UK cancer survivors working when diagnosed with cancer were purposively recruited to participate in semi-structured interviews. Participants had either returned to work or were retired, on sick leave, or having a career break when interviewed. Data were thematically analysed with themes developed inductively. RESULTS: The analysis revealed four central themes, each with two sub-themes: (1) Work disruption, through absence and stopping work, (2) Fatigue impacting work ability, through symptoms leading participants to evaluate their work capacity, (3) Work factors impacting fatigue, through work demands and enablers, and (4) Support for workplace fatigue from employers and healthcare professionals. CRF symptoms are severe and can have a prolonged impact on survivor work outcomes. Healthcare professionals should offer rehabilitation-based CRF advice, and employers should implement accommodations to support survivors' work retention and rehabilitation. Person-centred research and practice are critical to understanding the relative importance of different individual factors impacting working survivors.