engleski

CANCER PATIENTS AND RETURN TO WORK PROCESS – WHAT WE NEED

Cancer is one of the major public health problem in Croatia. In Croatia prevalence of cancer has been increasing in recent decades. For people recovering from cancer, returning to work meets are not only economical needs, but also psychological needs, which give meaning to people’s lives. What do we know about employment after diagnosis in Croatia? Methods In Croatia, cancer incidence is monitored and studied by the Croatian National Cancer Registry. This is only source of data about cancer patients. Literature has been reviewed about cancer patients and return to work. Findings In 2014, there were more than 21000 newly diagnosed cancer cases. About half of them are at the working age. In Croatia there are no data about work ability, quality of life, work related issues of cancer survivors.There is no data about professions and employment of cancer patients. Many people who use the sick leave could participate in the working life before treatment and medical rehabilitation have been completed. The process of returning to work requires a multidisciplinary approach and the cooperation of all involved in the process. It is necessary for employers, patients and medical professionals to be involved in the treatment and rehabilitation (clinical specialists, GP, occupational medicine specialists, occupational therapist). Conclusions Research and education of healthcare workers, patients and employers in the topic of cancer and work is necessary, and further efforts should be made to support the return to work of cancer patients. Occupational physician should determine the restrictions and adjustment to worker, which would be temporary or permanent need, in order to start work without further damage to the health.

cancer, return to work, education

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