Experiences and concerns about ‘returning to work’ for women breast cancer survivors: a literature review

Objective: To explore how female breast cancer patients experience work incapacity during the
treatment and return-to-work phases and how interactions between patients and stakeholders
affect this experience.
Method: Database search for full text articles published between January 1995 and
January 2008 that focused on employed female breast cancer patients, factors related to work
incapacity, and returning to work. Only results based on self-report data were included. Studies
focusing on treatment, financial factors, rate of return, or absence were excluded.
Results: Six articles met the inclusion criteria. Women with breast cancer receive varied
reactions but little advice about returning to work. Women were primarily concerned with
disclosing the diagnosis to their employer and to relatives. Uncertainties about physical
appearance, ability to work, and possible job loss affected the women’s decisions about working
during the treatment phase. After treatment, most women wanted to regain their ‘normal life’,
but concentration and arm or fatigue problems potentially interfered. Although supportive
work environments were helpful, the individual needs of women differed. Employers and
employees need to find a balance in defining accommodating work. Many women received
favourable support, but some reported feeling discriminated against. Many women re-evaluated
the role of work in their lives after being confronted with breast cancer.
Conclusion: Work adjustments could help women to keep their jobs during illness and
recovery. To resolve women’s concerns about returning to work, employers, physicians, and
insurance institutions should consider increasing and improving communication with breast
cancer patients and playing a more active and supportive role.