Return to Work in Cancer Survivors

Cancer survival rates have risen steadily over the past decades, transforming malignancy into a chronic condition for many patients of working age. As survivorship extends, re-entering the workforce has become a critical milestone, conferring economic stability, social engagement and a renewed sense of purpose. Return to work is influenced by a complex interplay of individual, clinical and workplace factors. Physical sequelae such as fatigue, pain and cognitive lapses may persist long after treatment ends, creating barriers to sustained employment. Psychosocial dimensions—including mental health, self-efficacy and social support—similarly shape a survivor’s readiness and resilience. Employer attitudes, occupational demands and the availability of reasonable adjustments are equally crucial, as is the broader policy environment governing sick leave and vocational rehabilitation. Globally, the proportion of survivors resuming work varies widely by cancer site, treatment regimen and socioeconomic context. Interdisciplinary interventions that integrate oncology care, occupational therapy and employer engagement have demonstrated promise in bridging gaps between post-treatment capabilities and job requirements. Emerging evidence underscores the need for early assessment of work capacity and tailored support throughout the recovery trajectory to optimise long-term work retention and quality of life.

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Return to Work in Cancer Survivors publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in return to work in cancer survivors across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Return to work (RTW): The process by which cancer survivors resume paid employment following diagnosis and treatment.

Cohort study: An observational design tracking a group of individuals over time to examine how specific characteristics influence outcomes.

Systematic review and meta-analysis: A comprehensive synthesis of existing studies that integrates quantitative findings to estimate overall effects.

Functional impairment: Limitations in physical, cognitive or emotional capacities that affect everyday tasks and work activities.

References

1. Impact of breast cancer care pathways and related symptoms on the return-to-work process: results from a population-based French cohort study (CONSTANCES). Breast Cancer Research (2023).
2. Long-term work retention after treatment for cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Cancer Survivorship (2020).
3. Fatigue and depressive symptoms improve but remain negatively related to work functioning over 18 months after return to work in cancer patients. Journal of Cancer Survivorship (2018).