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Returning to work after cancer: quantitative studies and prototypical narratives
John F Steiner1, Carolyn T Nowels, Deborah S Main
1Colorado Health Outcomes Program, University of Colorado Denver, CO, USA. john.f.steiner@kp.org
Psycho-Oncology
|June 10, 2009
Summary
Quantitative studies show most cancer survivors return to work, influenced by cancer type and job factors. Narratives enhance understanding of return to work challenges and successes for cancer survivors.
Area of Science:
- Cancer Survivorship Research
- Occupational Health
- Health Dissemination
Background:
- Quantitative data and narratives can broaden research dissemination.
- Return to work is a key concern for cancer survivors.
- Methodologically rigorous studies are needed to inform this area.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify rigorous quantitative studies on return to work after cancer.
- To summarize key themes from these studies.
- To illustrate these themes with survivor narratives.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of English-language studies on return to work for adult cancer survivors (up to June 2008).
- Identification of 13 general themes based on six methodological criteria.
- Integration of survivor narratives from a prior qualitative study.
Main Results:
- Nine quantitative studies met the methodological criteria.
- Most cancer survivors return to work without residual disabilities.
- Factors influencing return to work include cancer site, prognosis, treatment, socioeconomic status, and job attributes.
Conclusions:
- Illustrative narratives can effectively complement quantitative findings in cancer survivorship research.
- Rigorous and transparent selection, analysis, and retelling of stories are crucial.
- This combined approach enhances the broader dissemination of research findings.
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