The impact of breast cancer on employment among Japanese women.

OBJECTIVES

Breast cancer (BC) is a cancer that affects working age women in Japan. The aim of this study was to examine the impact that BC has on the work-related life of Japanese women and identify factors that correlate with job resignation.

METHODS

A cross-sectional Internet survey of cancer survivors in Japan was conducted from December 2011 to February 2012. The questionnaire included questions regarding demographic characteristics, impact of cancer diagnosis and treatment on job resignation and consultation behavior of respondents regarding work-related issues. This study reports results obtained from 105 respondents with BC.

RESULTS

The mean age of respondents at diagnosis was 42.5 ± 6.4 years, and the median time since diagnosis was 40 months. Thirty-one respondents (29.5%) lost their jobs, and 12 could not find another job after BC diagnosis. Nearly half of the respondents (47.6%) reported a decrease in personal income after diagnosis. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that contract or part time workers were significantly more likely to lose their jobs compared with regular, full time workers (odds ratio, 2.52; 95% confidence interval, 1.39 to 4.55; p<0.001). Seventy-nine respondents (75.2%) consulted someone regarding work-related issues. The most frequently consulted person was the boss at the workplace.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that women with BC experience various job-related problems. In order to create a supportive work environment for BC survivors, focus should be placed on facilitating communication and coordination between BC survivors, healthcare providers and coworkers.