Cancer survivorship and employment: epidemiology

Survivorship following cancer diagnosis is increasing in prevalence; however, the research literature relating to the process of return to work is sparse. The limited literature suggests four groups of factors associated with return to work: (i) impact of cancer site, (ii) impact of treatment, (iii) occupational status and (iv) the roles of others. The extent to which these findings can be generalized to UK settings is limited as most research originates in countries with social welfare arrangements differing significantly from those in place in the UK. Therefore, there is a need for more evidence to inform better guidance for clinicians, survivors and work organizations about how to manage cancer in the workplace.