Abstract
PurposeCancer-related cognitive problems (cancer-related cognitive problems) in working cancer survivors are found to affect work outcomes. We aimed to generate in-depth information regarding cancer-related cognitive problems in working cancer survivors, strategies used to cope with cancer-related cognitive problems at work, and needs of cancer survivors and professionals regarding cancer-related cognitive problems at work.MethodsFive focus groups were formed, amongst which three focus groups with cancer survivors (n = 8, n = 7, and n = 8) and two focus groups with professionals (n = 7, n = 8). Thematic analysis of the transcripts was performed to create concepts.ResultsBoth cancer survivors and professionals confirmed that cancer-related cognitive problems, which occurred in several domains of neurocognitive functioning, affect work functioning. Cancer survivors used several strategies (e.g., applying practical adjustments, re-organization of work, and accepting limitations) to cope with cancer-related cognitive problems at work, as did professionals in their attempt at supporting cancer survivors facing these problems. Various needs of cancer survivors (e.g., supportive care options, acknowledgment by others) and professionals (e.g., improvement of expertise, clarity about referral pathways) regarding cancer-related cognitive problems at work were mentioned.ConclusionsDue to the growing number of working cancer survivors dealing with cancer-related cognitive problems, it is essential to sustain their employability. Therefore, cognitive rehabilitation interventions should be developed, taking functioning at work into account. Knowledge amongst professionals regarding cancer-related cognitive problems, as well as coordination of care for cancer-related cognitive problems, should be improved. Ensuring professional education regarding cancer-related cognitive problems, within both the healthcare and occupational setting, is of utmost importance.Implications for cancer survivorsSupport for working cancer survivors who experience cancer-related cognitive problems might increase their employability in the longer term.
Highlights
In the past decades, cancer survival rates have increased due to screening and improved treatment modalities
To generate the information needed and future interventions to help cancer survivors with non-central nervous system (CNS) tumors who experience cancer-related cognitive problems to maintain their employability, we aimed to identify (1) cancer-related cognitive problems in cancer survivors who returned to work, (2) strategies that cancer survivors use to cope with cancer-related cognitive problems at work, and strategies that professionals use in their attempt at supporting these cancer survivors, and (3) needs of cancer survivors and professionals regarding cancer-related cognitive problems at work
Cancer survivors were eligible for participation in a focus group if they: (1) experienced cancer-related cognitive problems at work; (2) were diagnosed with a non-CNS tumor; (3) were currently employed in paid work; and (4) were able to communicate in Dutch
Summary
Cancer survival rates have increased due to screening and improved treatment modalities. 89% of cancer survivors are able to (partly) return to work (RTW) within 24 months following a cancer diagnosis [1, 2]. The loss of work capacity in cancer survivors should be avoided. Adverse work outcomes are common in cancer survivors, such as an increased risk of sickness absenteeism and of a decline in productivity levels while at work (i.e., presenteeism) and/or ability to work (i.e., an individual’s psychological, physical, and social means to engage in work [3]), compared to non-cancer groups. Cancer survivors more frequently experience job loss and higher levels of receiving work disability benefits than the general working population [1, 3, 4]. Supporting cancer survivors to continue their work, beyond initial RTW, is increasingly important
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