Work ability following breast cancer - the MyHealth randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Services Research
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Previous research indicated the MyHealth program positively impacted quality of life and mental health in breast cancer survivors.
• This study investigated the impact of the MyHealth program on self-reported work ability in early-stage breast cancer patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if the nurse-led MyHealth follow-up program enhances self-reported work ability in early-stage breast cancer patients compared to regular follow-up.

Main Methods:

• 288 early-stage breast cancer patients, active in the labor market, were randomized to either the MyHealth program or control follow-up.
• The MyHealth program included self-management, electronic symptom monitoring, and healthcare navigation assistance.
• Work Ability Score (WAS) was measured at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months using linear mixed-effect models.

Main Results:

• Work ability significantly increased in both MyHealth and control groups within the first 6 months post-treatment.
• No significant differences in mean Work Ability Score (WAS) were observed between the MyHealth and control groups at any follow-up point.
• Improvements in work ability were most notable in patients who reported poor work ability at baseline.

Conclusions:

• The MyHealth program did not demonstrate an additional benefit for self-reported work ability compared to regular follow-up care.
• Future interventions aimed at improving work ability should specifically target patients with pre-existing poor work ability.
• Incorporating components designed to enhance work ability is recommended for future intervention development.