Review
The impact of cystic fibrosis on the working life of patients: A systematic review

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcf.2021.08.011Get rights and content
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Highlights

  • Longer life expectancy increased cystic fibrosis patients’ workforce participation

  • The disease impact on patients’ work-functioning is still not fully understood

  • Significant proportions of cystic fibrosis patients retain full or part-time jobs

  • Disease severity and psycho-social factors can determine work disability

  • Healthcare of cystic fibrosis should include the assessment of work function

Abstract

Advances in the treatment and management of cystic fibrosis (CF) have led to a substantial increase in patient life expectancy, thus facilitating healthier lives and labour force participation. This review aimed to address the impact of CF on the occupational functioning of patients. A significant proportion of patients were reported to retain a job on a full- or part-time schedule. Less physically demanding occupations were most frequently performed, perhaps due to CF-related inability to sustain a heavy workload. Disease severity parameters (e.g., lung function measurements, or personal, psycho-social, or economic conditions) have been reported as determinant or co-determinant factors for the development of work-related disability. Although further research is necessary, our results may be useful to inform interdisciplinary CF healthcare management, including the assessment of work function, and to define career counselling plans and workplace risk assessment and management strategies to support the personal, social and professional lives of patients.

Keywords

Cystic fibrosis
Occupation
Employment
Work ability
Professional life
Risk assessment and management

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