Psychosocial burden and sociodemographic characteristics of cancer survivors seeking support for work-related issues in outpatient cancer counseling centers

INTRODUCTION: Outpatient cancer counseling centers (OCCs) are important social work facilities that provide support for cancer survivors who have psychosocial and sociolegal challenges. This paper explores clinical and sociodemographic characteristics, psychosocial burden as well as access routes of clients in OCCs seeking work-related counseling. METHODS: Between May 2022 and December 2023, data were collected in 19 OCCs, using questionnaires and documentation by counselors. RESULTS: The 719 cancer survivors surveyed had a mean age of 50 and were predominantly female (78%); 46% had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Most respondents had university entrance certificates (42%). The respondents rated their overall life and job satisfaction at a mean of 5 and distress at a mean of 7. The majority of respondents had received information about the OCC from the hospital. DISCUSSION: The results show that especially women with breast cancer and high socioeconomic status made use of counseling in the CARES study. The respondents also had a high sense of burden and dissatisfaction and access routes to the OCCs were mainly through recommendations of the treating hospitals or physicians. These findings can be used to ensure need-based counseling in the OCC, as well as to address additional target groups that are currently underrepresented.