When Cancer Affects the Brain: CRCI and Long-Term Disability Claims

Surviving cancer is an incredible milestone — but it’s not always the end of the struggle. Many survivors develop unexpected cognitive problems that make it difficult to return to work. These challenges, known as Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment (CRCI), can significantly impact daily functioning. They can also complicate the process of getting or keeping long-term disability (LTD) benefits.

What Is Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment?

Cancer-related cognitive impairment — sometimes called “chemo brain” or “chemo fog” — refers to thinking and memory problems that may appear during or after cancer treatment.

It was once thought to affect only chemotherapy patients, but research shows CRCI can also occur after radiation, endocrine therapies, and other cancer treatments

How CRCI Can Affect Work Ability

Survivors experiencing CRCI often report:

• Forgetfulness and word-finding difficulties
• Trouble focusing or multitasking
• Feeling mentally “slower” and needing more effort to complete familiar tasks

These symptoms can make it difficult to handle complex tasks, meet deadlines, or keep up with workplace demands. Studies suggest up to 75% of patients experience symptoms during treatment, and up to 35% continue to have difficulties long after treatment ends.

Why This Matters in Disability Claims

LTD insurance companies often expect cancer survivors to return to work as soon as their physical treatment ends. Unfortunately, many claims are denied because insurers overlook or dismiss the impact of cognitive problems.

We regularly see denials where the insurer:

• Focuses only on the claimant’s cancer being in remission, ignoring ongoing cognitive symptoms
• States there is “insufficient objective evidence” of cognitive limitations
• Fails to consider how subtle mental deficits can affect job performance, especially in complex or safety-sensitive roles

Building a Strong LTD Appeal for CRCI

If your LTD claim was denied or terminated, it’s critical to submit clear, targeted medical and vocational evidence on appeal. This may include:

• Neuropsychological testing to objectively document memory, attention, and processing-speed deficits
• Detailed statements from treating oncologists, primary care doctors, and mental health providers
• Workplace evidence (such as performance reviews) showing how CRCI affects your job duties
• A personal affidavit describing your daily struggles, fatigue, and cognitive limitations

You need to present as much evidence as possible during the appeal process. In most cases, you cannot submit new evidence after exhausting your appeals.

How We Can Help

At the Ortiz Law Firm, we represent people nationwide in LTD appeals and lawsuits, including those involving cancer-related cognitive impairment. We know how to counter insurance company tactics and build a compelling case for why your cognitive limitations prevent you from working. If your LTD claim was denied — or if you’re worried it might be — we can help you fight back. Call us at (888) 321-8131 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.