Panel: The Need for System Solutions to Improve Employment Outcomes of Cancer Survivors

Abstract

The good news is that the number of cancer survivors and length of survival has increased due to early detection and treatment improvements. Of the estimated 10.5 million cancer survivors in the United States, approximately 40% are of working age (NCI, 2006). Unfortunately, one out of five survivors experience cancer-related disabilities that affect employment. Survivors may experience long-term and late-effects (including functional and general health changes) resulting in less than optimal employment outcomes, including long-term employment and work productivity. Although employment issues have been recognized in this area, to date, the majority of research on work productivity and return to work in human factors and ergonomics has focused on common occupational injuries and illnesses. The application of theories, methodologies, and perspectives from human factors research may serve to optimize employment outcomes for cancer survivors.