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Supportive Care in Cancer
Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer 7/2016

Open Access 01-07-2016 | Original Article

Factors associated with (non-)participation of cancer survivors with job loss in a supportive return to work program

Authors: Martine P. van Egmond, Johannes R. Anema, Amika Singh, Allard J. van der Beek, Saskia F. A. Duijts

Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Issue 7/2016

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Abstract

Purpose

To evaluate and implement supportive programs, it is important to understand which cancer survivors (CSs) are participating in these programs and which motives exist for declining participation. Recently, a supportive return-to-work (RTW) program was offered to CSs with job loss. The purpose of this study was to identify factors and motives associated with (non-)participation of CSs with job loss in the RTW program.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study (N = 286), information on socio-demographic, health-related, psychosocial, and work-related characteristics of CSs in the program was collected. Similar data were collected from those who declined participation. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted (p < 0.05) to identify factors associated with (non-)participation. Motives for declining participation were identified using descriptive analysis.

Results

Being married (odds ratio (OR) 0.23; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.08–0.69) or living together (OR 0.25; 95 % CI 0.07–0.96) decreased the likelihood of participation in the RTW program. Having a temporary employment contract prior to unemployment (OR 2.60; 95 % CI 1.20–5.63), a clear intention to RTW (OR 2.65; 95 % CI 1.20–5.82), and higher scores on a readiness to RTW instrument, i.e., contemplation scale (OR 2.00; 95 % CI 1.65–2.40) and prepared for action–self-evaluative scale (OR 1.27; 95 % CI 1.04–1.54), increased the likelihood of participation. Physical (50 %) and mental problems (36 %) were leading motives for declining participation.

Conclusions

The results from this study help to distinguish CSs that may not need RTW support, from those who are most in need of RTW support. Practitioners and researchers should tailor RTW support to CSs’ socio-demographic, health-related, and work-related characteristics.
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Metadata
Title
Factors associated with (non-)participation of cancer survivors with job loss in a supportive return to work program
Authors
Martine P. van Egmond
Johannes R. Anema
Amika Singh
Allard J. van der Beek
Saskia F. A. Duijts
Publication date
01-07-2016
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
Supportive Care in Cancer / Issue 7/2016
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Electronic ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-016-3130-5

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