Return to work in head and neck cancer survivors: a systematic review

Zecena Morales, C; Lisy, K; McDowell, L; Piper, A; Jefford, M

Author(s): Zecena Morales, C; Lisy, K; McDowell, L; Piper, A; Jefford, M;
Details: Publication Year 2023-04,Volume 17,Issue #2,Page 468-483
Journal Title: Journal of Cancer Survivorship
Publication Type: Review
Abstract: PURPOSE: Cancer survivors face higher rates of unemployment compared with individuals without a history of cancer. Compared to other cancer types, head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors face unique disease and treatment-specific issues that may limit return to work (RTW). This review aimed to determine employment outcomes of HNC survivors post-treatment and identify factors associated with RTW. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL and PsycINFO in December 2021. Inclusion criteria included adults (>/= 18 years); completed treatment for HNC; data available on RTW post-treatment. Both quantitative and qualitative studies were considered. Studies were critically appraised and data synthesised narratively. RESULTS: Twenty-nine publications were included: 22 quantitative, four qualitative and three mixed methods. The proportion of HNC survivors who RTW ranged from 32 to 90%, with participants taking 3.6-11 months to RTW. Working in a professional role and having a supportive work environment were positively associated with RTW. CONCLUSIONS: The proportion of HNC survivors who RTW varies significantly which may be due to the heterogeneity between the studies including difference in clinical characteristics of the participants and/or sample size. Future studies that are longitudinal, adequately powered and measure a range of clinical and demographic variables are needed to better understand the RTW experience and assist development of effective RTW strategies. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: This review suggests potential areas for intervention, including enhanced symptom management and engaging with employers to foster supportive work environments to support RTW of HNC survivors.
Publisher: Springer Nature
Keywords: Adult; Humans; Return to Work; *Cancer Survivors; *Head and Neck Neoplasms/therapy; Survivors; Employment; Head and neck cancer; Quality of life; Survivorship
Department(s): Health Services Research; Australian Cancer Survivorship Centre; Radiation Oncology
PubMed ID: 36396907
Publisher's Version: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11764-022-01298-6
Terms of Use/Rights Notice: Refer to copyright notice on published article.

Creation Date: 2023-08-07 07:16:25

Last Modified: 2023-08-07 07:17:40