Physically Demanding Jobs Compound Cancer Treatment Challenges

WeCanWork study reveals disparities in support for male survivors.

Men in physically demanding jobs require greater support during and after cancer treatment, according to a recent study by the Well-Being and Cancer at Work (WeCanWork) project. The findings highlight significant challenges related to job security, financial stability, and access to necessary accommodations.

Study Highlights Disparities

The study, co-authored by Cathy Bradley, PhD, dean of the Colorado School of Public Health and deputy director of the University of Colorado Cancer Center, examined the experiences of cancer survivors in physically demanding roles. Bradley discussed how the results could inform the design of future interventions to better support this population.

Participants reported that the most common employer accommodations were flexible start and stop times (84.2%), more breaks (73.7%), and shorter workdays (51.3%). However, few received transportation assistance (5.3%), special equipment (13.2%), or rehabilitation services (15.8%).

Financial and Workplace Struggles

Men with physically demanding jobs reported lower wages, less satisfaction with benefits, reduced autonomy and flexibility, and greater financial insecurity. The research also noted negative job attitudes, safety concerns, less sleep, and less support outside work.

As Cathy Bradley noted, It’s based on prior evidence and work that people in physically demanding jobs have a harder time returning to work [after cancer]. These jobs often lack paid sick leave or health insurance, and may be with smaller employers exempt from the Family Medical Leave Act or the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Health Insurance Impacts Work Decisions

The study revealed that survivors with health insurance were more likely to continue working to maintain their benefits, even if it meant sacrificing their health. Those without health insurance were more likely to stop working altogether. Nationally, about 8.7% of Americans lacked health insurance in 2023, underscoring the importance of employer-sponsored coverage (U.S. Census Bureau).

Challenging Existing Beliefs

The WeCanWork project is challenging the assumption that cancer survivors easily return to work. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive support systems.

“They challenge it in the way that we’ve started to believe that people just go back to work. We’re seeing that that isn’t necessarily the case, and that if they do, they need to have a lot of support.”

—Cathy Bradley, PhD

Specific Challenges Detailed

Beyond general difficulties, individuals in physically demanding jobs face specific challenges, including lower wage satisfaction, reduced job autonomy, and financial instability.

The biggest obstacles revolve around paid sick leave, time off, and accommodations. Providing accommodations in physically demanding jobs can be difficult compared to office settings. The key is offering the necessary support and flexibility to allow individuals to take time off until they are ready to return.

Evolving Support Systems

The WeCanWork project has evolved to focus on practical solutions, such as encouraging oncology practices to refer patients to occupational medicine. Occupational medicine professionals can collaborate with oncology teams to understand and advocate for patients’ needs, ensuring they receive proper rehabilitation and support.

Bridging the Gap

The goal is to provide evidence-based information demonstrating the benefits of integrated support, which helps individuals continue working. Employers may be more willing to offer accommodations if they know they can retain valuable employees. This integrated approach also benefits oncology by offering additional support, particularly in areas outside their primary focus, such as sick leave policies and workplace needs.

Future Research Needed

The investigators are advocating for additional longitudinal studies to assess long-term outcomes, such as who returns to work, how long they stay employed, and their experiences upon returning. Understanding these factors, particularly for those in less secure employment situations, is crucial. Over half of Americans work for small businesses.

Long-Term Effects of Therapies

As new cancer therapies are developed, it’s essential to understand their long-term impact on employed individuals. Oral targeted agents, for example, can have extended side effects that affect a person’s ability to work over time. Ensuring people can continue working is vital, especially given the high cost of these drugs, indicating the need for further research in this area.