Journal of occupational rehabilitation
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Purpose The purpose of this prospective cohort study of breast cancer survivors was to identify factors before diagnosis, during treatment, and after treatment that are associated with return to work (RTW). Methods A total of 288 women with breast cancer (stage I-III) and whose age were 18-65 years-old answered questionnaires at 4-6, 12, 24, and 36 months after diagnosis. The surveys asked about performance of regular exercise and health-related quality of life issues. "RTW at 36 months" was assigned to patients who reported any of the following: working at least twice; no job at baseline but working more than once; job at baseline, stopped working, and then started working again; and working during all 3 years. ⋯ Childbirth at 12-24 months was negatively associated with RTW. Conclusion Women who participate in exercise before, during, and after treatment for breast cancer are more likely to RTW. A woman's need to care for children, perceived body image, and existential well-being may also affect her RTW.