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Understanding Cancer Survivors’ Needs and Experiences Returning to Work Post-Treatment: A Longitudinal Qualitative Study
- Source :
- Current Oncology, Vol 29, Iss 5, Pp 3013-3025 (2022)
- Publication Year :
- 2022
- Publisher :
- MDPI AG, 2022.
-
Abstract
- Background: This study aimed to understand Canadian cancer survivors’ experiences during the return-to-work (RTW) process. Methods: A prospective qualitative longitudinal design was employed using the principles of phenomenological inquiry. Cancer survivors took part in three in-depth interviews: at the end of treatment, and 3 and 9 months after the first interview. Transcripts were analyzed using constant comparative analysis, guided by the Cancer and Work model. Results: A total of 38 in-depth interviews were conducted with 13 participants. The resultant themes were: (1) supports received or desired to enable RTW; (2) others’ limited understanding of the long-term impacts of a cancer diagnosis and its treatment; (3) worries and self-doubts about returning to work; and (4) changing perspectives on life and work after cancer. Conclusions: Cancer patients returning to work after treatment often experience challenges throughout the process, including varying levels of support from others and a range of ongoing effects and motivation to RTW. There is a clear gap in terms of the professional supports available to these individuals. Future research should focus on investigating how to improve both quality and accessibility of supports in a way that is personalized to the individual.
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 17187729 and 11980052
- Volume :
- 29
- Issue :
- 5
- Database :
- Directory of Open Access Journals
- Journal :
- Current Oncology
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- edsdoj.5953c3c2db624b22911fb05486face5c
- Document Type :
- article
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol29050245