Return to work after upper gastrointestinal cancer surgery: questionnaire-based observational study.

Abstract

Background: Return to work (RTW) is an important component of cancer survivorship. However, evidence on RTW after upper gastrointestinal cancer surgery remains limited.

Methods: We performed a questionnaire-based observational study between August 2023 and August 2025. Patients who underwent surgery with curative intent for upper gastrointestinal cancer, attended postoperative outpatient follow-up visits, and had been employed at the time of cancer diagnosis were eligible for this analysis.

Results: Among 410 patients who completed the questionnaire, 207 had been employed at the time of cancer diagnosis. Of these 207 patients, 144 had returned to work (70%). Patients who returned to work were younger than those who did not (median age, 62.5 vs. 65.0 years; P = 0.013). In multivariable logistic regression analysis, older age was associated with a lower likelihood of RTW; however, this association was attenuated and no longer statistically significant after further adjustment for employment status (full-time or part-time worker). The cumulative probability of self-reported RTW was significantly higher in patients aged < 65 years than in those aged ≥ 65 years (P = 0.011). Approximately 85% of patients who ultimately returned to work had resumed work by 6 months after surgery.

Conclusions: Most patients who ultimately returned to work did so within 6 months after surgery. RTW after upper gastrointestinal cancer surgery appears to be influenced by occupational and social circumstances; older age may serve as a proxy for these circumstances rather than an independent determinant of RTW, highlighting the potential value of individualized survivorship care and timely RTW support.