Returning to work after head and neck cancer.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Occupational Health
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Head and neck cancer (HNC) survival rates have improved, increasing the number of working-age survivors.
• There's a rising incidence of HNC, particularly oral and pharyngeal types, in younger populations (under 65).
• This demographic shift, linked to human papilloma virus (HPV), creates a growing need to understand survivorship issues like return to work (RTW).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current evidence on return to work (RTW) for head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors.
• To identify gaps in knowledge regarding the challenges and experiences of HNC survivors in the workplace.
• To highlight the need for developing targeted interventions to support RTW for this population.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies on RTW in head and neck cancer patients.
• Analysis of factors influencing RTW and work-related experiences.
• Identification of research gaps and areas for future investigation.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests HNC survivors return to work at lower rates compared to survivors of other cancers.
• The existing knowledge base on RTW after HNC is limited and conclusions are difficult to draw.
• There is a scarcity of research focusing on the lived experiences of HNC survivors regarding their return to work.

Conclusions:

• There is an urgent need for comprehensive research into the needs and concerns of HNC survivors returning to work.
• Further exploration of survivor perspectives is crucial for understanding RTW barriers.
• The ultimate goal is to develop evidence-based interventions to facilitate successful RTW and sustained employment for HNC survivors.