A recent study in Australia estimates the national labour force participation rates of people with cancer.

Researchers from James Cook University used national cross-sectional data from the 2015 Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers to find that almost half of people with cancer in Australia are not in the labour force. They suggest that this results in a reduction of $1.7 billion to the Australian gross domestic product (GDP).

This information is valuable when considering how cancer affects patients and society, according to the authors.

Previous studies have shown that many cancer survivors will return to work after treatment, from 40% at six-months to 89% at 24-months following a cancer diagnosis. Cancer survivors may benefit from additional support by the Government, employers and medical professionals to return to work if they choose.