Key result
Shift work among cancer survivors was associated with increased perceived difficulties in returning to work (adj-RR 1.30; 95% CI 0.94-1.78).
Why the study?
Return to work enhances well-being and social participation for cancer survivors, but the predictive value of work-related factors on this process needed description.
Cross-Sectional (n=266)
Relative Risk: 1.3 (95% CI 0.94–1.78)
Work-related factors such as shift work, night work, and physical demands negatively impact the return to work process for cancer survivors, highlighting the need for personalized vocational rehabilitation.
Should not yet change return-to-work advice for cancer survivors; leaves open causal effects on employment reintegration.
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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A 2022 study conducted a cross-sectional in Cancer survivors (n=266). Shift work vs. Non-shift work was evaluated on Perceived difficulties returning to work (adj-RR 1.30, 95% CI 0.94-1.78). Shift work among cancer survivors was associated with increased perceived difficulties in returning to work (adj-RR 1.30; 95% CI 0.94-1.78).
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