Colorectal cancer survivors' challenges to returning to work: A qualitative study

Abstract

Objective To assess the challenges and needs of colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors in maintaining employment and returning to work (RTW) from the perspectives of both CRC survivors and employers in the United States. Methods Semi‐structured interviews with CRC survivors (n = 10) and employers (n = 4) were transcribed, coded and thematically analysed using NVivo 12 software. Results Workplace challenges for survivors included the following: inadequate availability of paid and unpaid leave, limited availability of workplace accommodations, and employers' lack of knowledge about CRC and the recovery process. Survivors were concerned about the lack of adequate financial resources to take unpaid leave and the need to relearn control of bodily functions. Workplace challenges for employers of cancer survivors included the following: limited institutional flexibility to provide individualised accommodations, communication with frontline managers about leave availability for employees and communication with employees about legal protections and limitations. Employers perceived that employees were unwilling to take leave. Conclusion Colorectal cancer survivors in the US face difficult, sometimes insurmountable, challenges when trying to balance their physical and financial needs within the constraints of employment. Employers recognise challenges associated with this concern. Multi‐level interventions—ranging from flexible work schedules to training for frontline managers—might facilitate the RTW process.

Risk factors for return to work in colorectal cancer survivors

“…Studies have also indicated the importance of support from the employers and colleagues. 30 Table 5 highlights the facilitators and barriers for employment status identified in studies that included CRC patients. 10,12,21,22,24,25,28,[31][32][33][34][35] The present study had a distinctly large sample size (N = 4408).…”

Colorectal cancer survivorship: A systematic review and thematic synthesis of qualitative research

“…However, some could not take leave or reduce hours due to their financial situation (e.g. Gruss et al, 2019).…”

“…inability to provide flexible toilet breaks, limited leave availability) (e.g. Gruss et al, 2019 and some survivors were even fired or forced into retirement after treatment (e.g. Gruss et al, 2019).…”

“…Gruss et al, 2019 and some survivors were even fired or forced into retirement after treatment (e.g. Gruss et al, 2019). However, not all survivors faced hostile work environments, with some having accommodating and supportive workplaces (e.g.…”

“…inability to provide flexible toilet breaks, limited leave availability) (e.g. Gruss et al, 2019). Employers' ignorance about CRC and its recovery, and negative stigma associated with cancer survivors being weak or having shorter life expectancy, also impeded RTW, and some survivors were even fired or forced into retirement after treatment (e.g.…”