Support from workplaces related to job satisfaction and quality of life among cancer survivors

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to demonstrate the relationships between support from workplaces and cancer survivors’ job satisfaction and quality of life (QOL). Methods: Participants were recruited from hospital outpatient and self-help groups. People with cancer were asked to complete a self-administered questionnaire. Information was collected on demographic characteristics, disease-related status, workplace support, job satisfaction (measured with the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire: MSQ), and QOL (measured with the MOS 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey: SF-12). The relationships between support from workplaces and cancer survivors’ job satisfaction and QOL were evaluated using multivariate regression models with beta coefficients and 95% confidence intervals. Results: Of these, 144 participants completed the questionnaire. Having a significant person in the workplace including supervisors and coworkers was associated with higher job satisfaction and better mental health and role/social QOL among cancer survivors. Support from occupational health staff also promoted job satisfaction. Discussion: Our study revealed that some types of workplace support were related to job satisfaction and QOL among cancer survivors, mostly in the mental health and role/social domains. Conclusion: Enhancement of support from workplaces to cancer survivors is necessary to improve their job continuity.