Occupation and breast cancer: fitness for work is an aspect that needs to be addressed

Much progress has been made in breast cancer prevention, treatment and rehabilitation and there is evidence that the majority of breast cancer survivors are able to continue working. Although several studies suggest that environmental and occupational factors (certain chemicals and circadian rhythm changes) contribute to the onset of breast cancer, current management of individuals susceptible to breast cancer and breast cancer survivors does not focus on either occupational exposure or working conditions. A more active role of physicians in informing patients about occupational hazards and of occupational health physicians in making appropriate fitness for work judgments would lead to a more complete assessment of the health risk of susceptible workers and workers resuming their activity after sick leave for breast cancer treatment.