To investigate return-to-work rates among low-grade glioma (LGG) patients and identify specific barriers they face in returning to work post-treatment, such as cognitive impairments and lack of support services.
Key Findings:
52% of LGG patients return to work within one year post-surgery, increasing to 63% by year two, indicating a significant portion remain unemployed.
Cognitive impairments, particularly in executive functions, significantly affect the ability to return to work, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Lack of formal cognitive screening and vocational rehabilitation services for LGG patients limits their support in the return-to-work process.
Interpretation:
The study highlights the importance of addressing cognitive impairments and providing vocational support to improve return-to-work rates among LGG patients.
Limitations:
The study's sample may not represent all LGG patients due to purposive and convenience sampling, which could affect the generalizability of the findings.
No formal cognitive assessments were conducted to evaluate executive functioning, potentially underestimating the impact of cognitive deficits.
Conclusion:
Improving communication and support for LGG patients regarding return-to-work options, particularly in addressing cognitive impairments, is crucial for enhancing their quality of life.
