Self-reported work limitations in brain and breast cancer survivors

The survival rates of many types of cancer are increasing. As such, there is a greater focus on optimizing long-term function for survivors. Past research on work and cancer has been limited. The present study seeks to investigate the influence of demographics, medical treatment, fatigue, mood, job stress, cognitive limitations, health behaviors, social support, and problem solving orientation on work limitations in brain and breast cancer survivors and non-cancer comparisons. A group of 99 brain cancer, 102 breast cancer, and 153 non-cancer comparison participants completed a web-based questionnaire. Results from three separate multivariable linear regressions indicate that age, fatigue, depressive symptoms, cognitive limitations, sleep, and a negative problem solving orientation were associated with increased work limitations for brain tumor survivors. Fatigue alone was associated with increased work limitations for breast cancer survivors. Depressive symptoms and cognitive limitations were associated with increased work limitations in the non-cancer comparison group.