Cancer survival is improving, but return‑to‑work support is falling behind
Australia has made significant strides in improving cancer survival, but new research from Griffith University finds far less progress in supporting survivors' return to work, which remains a major challenge for many. The industry research report, "Return-to-Work for Cancer Survivors in the Life Insurance Context," was a joint research collaboration between Griffith University and Hannover Life…
Cancer survival rates in Australia have improved, yet research from Griffith University reveals that supporting cancer survivors' return to work has lagged behind. A joint study by the university and Hannover Life Re of Australasia Ltd, published in the Griffith Research Repository, interviewed 22 survivors, healthcare professionals, and employers to uncover barriers and propose 13 recommendations.
Associate Professor Carys Chan emphasized that as medical treatments continue to boost survival, the challenges of returning to work for cancer patients are growing more critical. Fatigue emerged as the most significant physical barrier, as it differs from regular tiredness—being overwhelming, persistent, and unrelieved by rest.
One survivor described the impact: "I had my full four days a week last week, and I was cooked by the end of the week, by the end of the day, and really, really, really am pushing my body to the limit to try and get back to work." Other obstacles included cognitive impairment, unsupportive employers, financial pressures, social discomfort, and loss of confidence following treatment.
Survivors often grappled with a disrupted identity, as one explained, "Well, I didn't have an identity. When I left, I didn't have an identity. My identity was I had cancer, that was it." While employers showed genuine interest, some maintained inflexible workloads or lacked understanding of employees' needs without guidance on appropriate workplace adjustments.
Healthcare professionals expressed frustration over delayed insurer referrals, which delayed rehabilitation, prolonged recovery, and increased claim costs, despite evidence that early intervention could improve outcomes. The researchers stressed the need for better communication between oncologists and employers to plan return-to-work strategies.
The recommendations call for earlier rehabilitation access, recognizing fatigue and identity disruption as legitimate barriers, enhancing employer and clinician capability, and integrating survivorship support into health and policy systems.
Written by urgent.news from Phys.org's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
