Cognitive Intervention for Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Adjuvant Chemotherapy

When Do I Get My Brain Back? Breast Cancer Survivors’ Experiences of Cognitive Problems

“…However, half of the participants in the current study who worked before their cancer diagnosis and treatment were no longer working, similar to findings from Munir et al (2011) andPlayer et al (2014). Many survivors believe they are not as sharp as before and might try to hide their perceived deficits from employers and coworkers (Munir et al, 2011). According to Duijts et al (2014), survivors want to get back to normal at work but also express a paradoxical need for support and accommodations.…”

“…Duijts et al (2014) suggested that employees who are given tailored support and work-related adjustments are more likely to continue working. Munir et al (2011) concluded that women who felt supported by their employers and colleagues felt more confident in their ability to work. Additional studies should explore how to help employers provide needed support for survivors, to mutual benefit.…”

“…In other qualitative studies conducted in the United States and abroad, survivors have reported that cognitive changes, particularly in memory and concentration, adversely affected their daily lives (Fitch, Armstrong, & Tsang, 2008;Mitchell & Turton, 2011;Myers, 2012;Player, Mackenzie, Willis, & Loh, 2014). Few women reported that their providers discussed potential cognitive problems with them, and they expressed frustration that providers did not validate their concerns or provide assistance (Mitchell & Turton, 2011;Munir et al, 2011). Boykoff et al (2009) concluded that additional studies should be conducted with survivors from a variety of settings.…”

Chemotherapy and Cognitive Impairment: Treatment Options

“…The effect of anticancer treatments on cognition is receiving increasing attention from researchers because some patients report cognitive difficulties long after anticancer treatment has been completed. However, there are no proven treatments or preventive measures for this side effect, and oncology service providers may not consider themselves sufficiently knowledgeable or well equipped to deal with the cognitive changes that patients may experience 1 . In a qualitative study, Munir et al 1 .…”

The impact of employment on cognition and cognitive reserve: implications across diseases and aging

“…49 Although 45%-93% of BCS choose to return to work within 12 months of diagnosis, cognitive impairments can make job-related duties more difficult and take longer to complete. [50][51][52][53] BCS' decision to return to work is influenced by cognitive impairments following treatment, self-awareness of cognitive impairments, and the impact of perceived cognitive impairments on their confidence to succeed at work. 54 BCS are more likely than their age-matched peers to experience changes in employment, including retirement, reduction of hours, and change of position.…”