Research
Evidence That Drives Change
Work Beyond Cancer is grounded in research. We draw on the best available Canadian evidence to inform our programs, advocacy, and support — and we invite you to help shape what comes next.
Why Research Matters
Cancer does not stop at the hospital door. The evidence is clear: employment outcomes, financial security, and workplace inclusion are deeply affected by a cancer diagnosis — and too often, the systems meant to support people fall short. We use research to understand the gaps and build better solutions.
Featured Research
Key Studies on Cancer & Work in Canada
Employment and Cancer in Canada
Approximately 65% of Canadians diagnosed with cancer are of working age. Many face significant disruptions to employment, income, and career progression — with lasting effects on financial wellbeing.
Canadian Cancer Society·2023
Financial Toxicity Among Canadian Cancer Patients
Nearly 40% of cancer patients in Canada experience financial hardship within the first year of diagnosis. Lost wages, out-of-pocket costs, and reduced work capacity are the leading contributors.
Canadian Partnership Against Cancer·2022
Return-to-Work Barriers After Cancer Treatment
Research identifies fatigue, cognitive changes, and lack of workplace accommodation as the top barriers to successful return-to-work for cancer survivors. Early intervention and employer education significantly improve outcomes.
CIHR — Canadian Institutes of Health Research·2022
Workplace Disclosure and Cancer: A Canadian Perspective
Many cancer patients fear disclosing their diagnosis to employers due to concerns about job security and stigma. Supportive workplace cultures and clear accommodation policies are critical to changing this dynamic.
Institute for Work & Health·2021
Caregiver Employment Impacts in Canada
An estimated 1.1 million Canadians reduce their work hours or leave employment entirely to care for someone with cancer. The economic and personal toll on caregivers remains significantly under-addressed.
Statistics Canada·2023
Psychosocial Distress and Workplace Functioning
Unaddressed psychosocial distress — including anxiety, depression, and fear of recurrence — is a leading predictor of prolonged work absence and reduced productivity among cancer survivors.
Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology·2022
Studies listed are representative of the broader evidence base. Sources will be updated as Work Beyond Cancer develops its own research partnerships.
Share Your Experience
Your Story Can Shape the Future
Lived experience is evidence. Work Beyond Cancer is committed to ensuring that the voices of people who have navigated cancer and work — as patients, survivors, caregivers, and colleagues — are at the centre of research, policy, and program design.
Share Your StoryWe are building a community of people willing to share their experiences to inform future research, advocacy, and resources. There is no obligation — your participation can be as simple as completing a short survey or sharing your story in your own words.
No obligation. No commitment required.
Grounded in evidence. Driven by people.
If you are a researcher, institution, or organization interested in partnering with Work Beyond Cancer on research or advocacy, we would love to connect.