Constructing system of worker support with cancer who return to work while receiving treatment.

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19K24266
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Research Activity Start-up
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: 0908:Society medicine, nursing, and related fields
• Research Institution: International University of Health and Welfare
• Principal Investigator: KAZUMI YANO 国際医療福祉大学, 大学院, 講師 (40847860)
• Project Period (FY): 2019-08-30 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: がん患者 / 就労継続 / 就労支援 / 就労継続要因 / EORTC QLQ-30C

Outline of Final Research Achievements

This study aimed to identify the factors affecting the continuation of work in patients with cancer who expressed a willingness to work. A total of 515 patients who were diagnosed with cancer within the last five years and who were willing to work were included. The factors that decreased the likelihood of working were being an adolescent or young adult, long-term absenteeism, fatigue, dyspnea, and economic problems. Factors that increased the likelihood of working were household income of 10 million yen or more, absenteeism of less than 7 months, and role functions. Our findings suggest that, to support the continuation of work, it is crucial to alleviate symptoms, such as fatigue and breathing difficulties, for patients with cancer, and provide support to ensure that their leave of absence does not exceed 7 months. In particular, psychological, social, and physical support to adolescents and young adults with cancer and those with economic problems are essential.

Free Research Field

がん看護学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

2023年4月、第4期がん対策推進基本計画が策定され、第3期に続き「がんとの共生」として就労支援が盛り込まれている。治療や支持療法の発展と共に今後益々治療と仕事の両立支援が重要になると考える。本研究は、がん患者の就労継続に影響を与えている要因を明らかにしたものであり、治療と仕事の両立支援をより具体化できる一助になると考える。