Background: Returning to work is a vital indicator of recovery among cancer survivors. Allogeneic stem cell transplant (ALLOSCT) recipients are more vulnerable to long-term physical and psychosocial adverse outcomes compared to other cancer survivors. The increasing proportion of working-age ALLOSCT survivors means that a comprehensive evaluation of outcomes is required; to improve care pathways for these patients and address their work-related goals.
Aim: Describe the physical, psychological, and quality of life outcomes of ALLOSCT patients that have returned to work compared to those who have not returned to work.
Methods: Prospective cohort study of post ALLOSCT patients at their first clinic visit between April 2014 and June 2021 was conducted. Data was collected using patient questionnaires measuring symptom burden, quality of life, vocational/work status and functional performance. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a pearson chi-square model to examine differences between patients working versus not working.
Results: 61% of patients were working and 27% not working at time of visit. Statistical difference was found in the fatigue severity (FACIT-Fatigue Subscale) scores (N=397) of patients working (39.43± 10.34) compared to patients not working (33.33± 14.29) ( p<0.001); as well as patients quality of life (FACT-BMT) (N = 379; 112.08± 26.60 versus 106.38 ±34.24 (p<0.001)) and their depression (HADS) (N = 429, 3.27 ±3.10 Versus 5.09 ±4.09 (p<0.001))
Conclusion: ALLOSCT survivors who are working are still suffering from fatigue but are reporting better quality of life and mood compared to those who are not working. Returning to work remains an important indicator of quality of life for these patients. Further investigation into why people return to work, and the level of interference of their fatigue is required to determine an appropriate intervention model.