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Wen L, Gao Z, Zhong X, Wen L, Zang S, Bai X. Readiness for return to work and its influencing factors among head and neck cancer patients: a cross-sectional study. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:420. [PMID: 38850487 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08622-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to investigate the Readiness for Return-to-Work (RRTW) of patients with head and neck tumours and to analyse the relationships among self-efficacy, disease uncertainty, psychosocial adaptation, and RRTW in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted with 259 HNC patients with a discharge length of ≥1 month at a tertiary hospital in Liaoning Province. The research tools included a self-designed general information questionnaire, the Readiness for Return-to-Work (RRTW) Scale, the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), the Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale (MUIS), and the Self-Reporting Psychosocial Adjustment to Illness Scale (PAIS-SR). Descriptive statistical analysis, the rank sum test, Spearman correlation analysis, and ordered multiple and dichotomous logistic regression analyses were used. RESULTS The overall RRTW among HNC patients was low (41.9%). HNC patients who did not return to work were mainly in the precontemplation stage (38.1%) and contemplation stage (29.9%). HNC patients who returned to work were mainly in the active maintenance stage (64.2%). Children's status (OR = 0.218, 95% CI 0.068-0.703), self-efficacy (OR = 1.213, 95% CI 1.012-1.454), unpredictability (OR = 0.845, 95% CI 0.720-0.990), occupational environment (OR = 0.787, 95% CI 0.625-0.990), and family environment (OR = 0.798, 95% CI 0.643-0.990) influence the RRTW of HNC patients who have not returned to work. Educational level (OR = 62.196, 95% CI 63.307-68.567), children's status (OR = 0.058, 95% CI 1.004-2.547), self-efficacy (OR = 1.544, 95% CI 3.010-8.715), unpredictability (OR = 0.445, 95% CI 1.271-2.280), and psychological status (OR = 0.340, 95% CI 1.141-2.401) influence the RRTW of HNC patients who have returned to work. CONCLUSION Children's status, education level, self-efficacy, illness uncertainty, and psychosocial adjustment are crucial to RRTW. This study provides a theoretical basis for formulating intervention measures aimed at improving the RRTW of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Wen
- Department of Operating Room, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhuoran Gao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 10/F, Oncology Building, No. 210, Baita I Street, Hunnan District, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xia Zhong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 10/F, Oncology Building, No. 210, Baita I Street, Hunnan District, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Lijie Wen
- Oncology Day Clinic, The First Hospital of Dandong, Dandong, China
| | - Shuang Zang
- Department of Community Nursing, School of Nursing, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xinghua Bai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 10/F, Oncology Building, No. 210, Baita I Street, Hunnan District, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China.
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Kim K, Yoon H. Effectiveness of a mobile-based return to work program for decent return to work, fatigue, stress, and quality of working life among cancer survivors. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01570-x. [PMID: 38769245 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01570-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to develop a smartphone mobile application-based supportive return to work (RTW) program for cancer survivors and evaluate its effects on their RTW, fatigue, stress, and quality of working life. This program was developed through a comprehensive process involving literature review, interviews with cancer survivors, and consultations with experts. METHODS A non-equivalent control group pre- and post-test design was used, with 41 participants assigned to the experimental (n = 18) and control (n = 23) groups based on recruitment timing. The experimental group received a 6-week smartphone mobile application-based supportive RTW program comprising "Counseling and Education" and "Self-Management." Participants completed assessments of decent RTW, fatigue, stress, and quality of working life at baseline and 6 months later. The experimental group completed an additional post-program completion survey. RESULTS During the 6-week program, no experimental group participants dropped out. The program's impact on decent RTW remains unclear. Fatigue (F = 2.52, p = 0.095) and quality of working life (F = 0.86, p = 0.434) did not show statistically significant differences. However, there was a significant reduction in stress (F = 4.59, p = 0.017). CONCLUSION The smartphone application-based RTW program, focusing on self-management and counseling, effectively reduced participants' stress levels. To further evaluate the effectiveness of the program, a more diverse range of interventions and ongoing programs should be implemented. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS This study underscores the importance of tailored digital interventions to support the RTW of cancer survivors. The use of mobile smartphone applications allows temporal and spatial flexibility in program participation. Interventions involving various activities should be implemented to ensure ongoing participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kisook Kim
- Department of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, 84, Heukseok-Ro, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyohyeon Yoon
- Department of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, 84, Heukseok-Ro, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea.
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Tay MRJ, Wong CJ, Aw HZ. Return to Work in Breast Cancer Patients following an Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation Program in a Community-Based Cancer Rehabilitation Center: A Pilot Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:805. [PMID: 38610227 PMCID: PMC11011383 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12070805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite curative treatment and discharge from acute hospital settings, breast cancer patients often have cancer- and treatment-related morbidity which impairs them from returning to work. Hence, the role of community-based return to work rehabilitation programs is important to help these patients transition back to work. This was a retrospective cohort study involving patients with breast cancer conducted at a community-based cancer rehabilitation center. Patients were involved in an interdisciplinary vocational rehabilitation program involving physiatrists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and social workers. We recruited 63 patients for this study cohort, with 46 (73.0%) patients ≤ 60 years old. After undergoing the rehabilitation program, there were 37 (58.7%) participants who successfully returned to work. These participants returned to work at either within 6 months (27.0%), 12 months (29.7%) or 24 months (43.2%) after enrollment into the program, with a majority enrolling in white collar jobs. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that significant negative factors for return to work were advanced stage of cancer (p = 0.004), along with clinically significant fatigue, measured on the Brief Fatigue Inventory (p < 0.001). However, perceived work ability (p = 0.020) was found to be a positive factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Rong Jie Tay
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore
- Singapore Cancer Society Rehabilitation Centre, 30 Hospital Boulevard, National Cancer Centre Singapore Building, Singapore 168583, Singapore
| | - Chin Jung Wong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore
| | - Hui Zhen Aw
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore
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Wu W, Yackel HD, Salner A, Chen MH, Judge MP, Cong X, Xu W. Work-health balance of cancer survivors returning to work: A meta-ethnography. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2024; 68:102482. [PMID: 38070450 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2023.102482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This meta-ethnography investigates the multifaceted health-related experiences of cancer survivors returning to work (RTW), recognizing the pivotal role of employment in overall well-being, particularly in the context of increasing cancer cases among working-age adults. METHOD Following the methodology of Noblit and Hare, a comprehensive literature search was conducted from 2013 to 2023 in databases including PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Embase. Qualitative studies assessing cancer survivors' experiences, motivation, concern, resilience, and need in the process of RTW were identified. Eligible studies were assessed for quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program Checklist, and their findings were subsequently synthesized. RESULTS Seventeen studies were included for analysis. The finding revealed five key themes: motivations (voluntary and involuntary), cancer-related concerns, resilience, needs for cancer healthcare support, and workplace accommodation. Voluntarily RTW was primarily linked to desires of normalcy, while involuntary RTW was often financially driven. Cancer survivors often face physical, psychological, and social challenges in the RTW process. Resilience played a crucial role in their readaptation to the workplace. Participants expressed the need for additional guidance from healthcare providers and tailored support from the workplace to facilitate a smoother RTW experience. CONCLUSION Cancer survivors aspire to be actively engaged, have their specific needs addressed, and achieve success in their return-to-work endeavors. Occupational guidance and accommodation from healthcare providers and employers play a pivotal role in empowering survivors to balance cancer and work, facilitating the return-to-work process, and enhancing the quality of survivorship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizi Wu
- School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | | | - Andrew Salner
- Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute, Hartford, CT, 06106, USA
| | - Ming-Hui Chen
- Department of Statistics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Michelle P Judge
- School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Xiaomei Cong
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, 06477, USA
| | - Wanli Xu
- School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA.
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Su XQ, Sang HH, Kuai BX, Xue P, Guo YJ. Experiences of cancer survivors returning to work decision-making: a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-023-01530-x. [PMID: 38198115 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01530-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Return to work for cancer survivors (CSs) may be challenging, and there is a research gap in integrating the relevant experiences of the return-to-work decision-making process for CSs. Our aim was to synthesize existing qualitative research that integrates the dynamic experiences of CSs in the return-to-work decision-making process and highlights the factors influencing the return-to-work decisions of CSs. METHODS We retrieved qualitative studies on a relevant theme published in the PubMed, EBSCO, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL databases since construction to December 2023. Literature screening, quality evaluation, and data analysis followed the PRISMA, Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool (2016), and thematic analysis methods to ensure study reliability. The study was registered on PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42023429623). RESULTS Ten articles were included, and six key outcomes were identified based on Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) integration: points of concern for individuals, sense of self-efficacy, outcome expectations, work perception and belonging, medical advice and guidance, and effects of the external reactions. CONCLUSION The decision-making process for CSs to return to work is affected by various personal and external factors. Effectively addressing personal appearance, financial, and emotional issues can enhance self-efficacy of CSs. Improving external perceptions of cancer patients and enhancing social support in the workplace and medical settings can help CSs make informed decisions regarding their return to work. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS The decision of CSs to return to work is a result of integrating personal, job, and medical care considerations. These findings contribute to the development of future interventions for CSs' return-to-work decisions that target an array of potential factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Qin Su
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hong-Hua Sang
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ben-Xin Kuai
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ping Xue
- Office of the Medical Community, Taizhou Second People's Hospital, Taizhou, 225300, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yu-Jie Guo
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
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Understanding Cancer Survivors’ Needs and Experiences Returning to Work Post-Treatment: A Longitudinal Qualitative Study. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:3013-3025. [PMID: 35621635 PMCID: PMC9139703 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29050245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to understand Canadian cancer survivors’ experiences during the return-to-work (RTW) process. Methods: A prospective qualitative longitudinal design was employed using the principles of phenomenological inquiry. Cancer survivors took part in three in-depth interviews: at the end of treatment, and 3 and 9 months after the first interview. Transcripts were analyzed using constant comparative analysis, guided by the Cancer and Work model. Results: A total of 38 in-depth interviews were conducted with 13 participants. The resultant themes were: (1) supports received or desired to enable RTW; (2) others’ limited understanding of the long-term impacts of a cancer diagnosis and its treatment; (3) worries and self-doubts about returning to work; and (4) changing perspectives on life and work after cancer. Conclusions: Cancer patients returning to work after treatment often experience challenges throughout the process, including varying levels of support from others and a range of ongoing effects and motivation to RTW. There is a clear gap in terms of the professional supports available to these individuals. Future research should focus on investigating how to improve both quality and accessibility of supports in a way that is personalized to the individual.
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Nakao M, Komatsu H, Hayashida T, Takahashi M, Seki T, Yagasaki K. The Relationship between Work-Related Outcomes and Symptoms in Early Breast Cancer Survivors Receiving Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2022; 9:174-178. [PMID: 35494090 PMCID: PMC9052840 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2022.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Methods Results Conclusions
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayumi Nakao
- Keio University Graduate School of Health Management Course for Nursing, Kanagawa, Japan
- Corresponding author.
| | - Hiroko Komatsu
- Japanese Red Cross Kyushu International College of Nursing, Munakata, Japan
| | - Tetsu Hayashida
- Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maiko Takahashi
- Keio Cancer Center, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoko Seki
- Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaori Yagasaki
- Faculty of Nursing and Medical Care, Keio University, Kanagawa, Japan
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Teramatsu H, Yamato H, Jiang Y, Kako H, Kuhara S, Ohya R, Itoh H, Kuroda K, Matsushima Y, Saeki S. Pre-operative Physical Performance Is Associated With Early Return to Work in Peri-operative Lung Cancer Patients. J UOEH 2022; 44:341-351. [PMID: 36464308 DOI: 10.7888/juoeh.44.341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the factors related to return to work (RTW) in patients with peri-operative lung cancer (LC). This study aimed to investigate whether pre-operative physical performance is associated with early RTW in patients with peri-operative LC. A total of 59 patients who wished to resume work after lung resection surgery were included and were divided into three groups: early RTW (within 14 days after discharge), delayed RTW (within 15-90 days), and non-RTW (failure of RTW within 90 days). The early RTW group had significantly lower scores on the modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale (mMRC) and significantly higher scores on the Euro Quality of Life 5-Dimension 3-Level (EQ-5D-3L) than the non-RTW group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that EQ-5D-3L scores were significantly associated with early RTW, and mMRC scores and knee extensor strength tended to be associated with early RTW. Better pre-operative quality of life, mild dyspnea, and greater lower limb muscle strength tended to be associated with early RTW in patients with peri-operative LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Teramatsu
- Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. 1-1, Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8556, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yamato
- Department of Health Development, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. 1-1 Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan
| | - Ying Jiang
- Department of Health Development, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. 1-1 Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kako
- Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. 1-1, Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8556, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kuhara
- Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. 1-1, Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8556, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Ohya
- Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. 1-1, Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8556, Japan
| | - Hideaki Itoh
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. 1-1, Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan
| | - Koji Kuroda
- Second Department of Surgery, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. 1-1, Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Matsushima
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. 1-1, Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan
| | - Satoru Saeki
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. 1-1, Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan
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Asada H, Takahashi Y, Ono Y, Kishi N, Matsuo Y, Mizowaki T, Nakayama T. Emotional Experiences of Skin Markings Among Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy and Related Factors: A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2022; 16:1359-1369. [PMID: 35651663 PMCID: PMC9150759 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s361916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients undergoing radiotherapy often have their skin marked. Previous studies on skin markings examined the durability and physical effects of the markings, but no study has focused on patients' emotional experiences toward the markings. This study aimed to clarify how patients undergoing radiotherapy feel about skin markings, as well as factors that affect patients' emotional experiences. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire and medical records. Participants were patients aged ≥20 years undergoing cancer radiotherapy at a designated cancer care hospital. The primary outcome was the level of uncomfortable emotions toward skin markings, and the secondary outcome was the level of favorable ratings on skin markings. To examine factors related to uncomfortable emotions, ordinal logistic regression analysis was performed. RESULTS Questionnaire forms were distributed to 153 patients, and responses were collected from 132 (86%). Among 108 patients included in the analysis, 56% (59/105, excluding 3 who did not answer this question) responded that they were uncomfortable with skin markings. The proportion of patients who favorably rated skin markings was 63% (59/93, excluding 15 who did not answer this question). No factors were significantly associated with the primary outcome. CONCLUSION Many patients accepted skin markings with resignation, as they understood the necessity of the markings in their treatment. Medical staff should understand the emotional experiences of patients toward skin markings and take sufficient care to ensure that they are provided with explanations, including the impact of skin markings on their daily lives, as well as a sense of security that treatment is being performed in a precise manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromi Asada
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
- Correspondence: Hiromi Asada, Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan, Tel/Fax +81-75-753-9479, Email
| | - Yoshimitsu Takahashi
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Yuka Ono
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Image-Applied Therapy, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Noriko Kishi
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Image-Applied Therapy, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yukinori Matsuo
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Image-Applied Therapy, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takashi Mizowaki
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Image-Applied Therapy, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takeo Nakayama
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
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