Analysis of the changes in health-related quality of life and employment status after surgery in patients with lung cancer: a single-center longitudinal study

Objective: This study analyzed the changes in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and employment status of patients undergoing lung cancer surgery in Japan. Methods: This was a single-center, prospective study on patients who underwent lung anatomical resection. The eligible patients completed self-reported HRQOL and employment surveys at baseline and 6 and 12 months postoperatively. HRQOL was assessed using questionnaires including the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and EORTC QLQ and Lung Cancer module and additional social engagement and work-related stress evaluation tools. Results: In total, 93 patients completed the baseline survey, and 80 provided survey data at 6 months postoperatively. The HRQOL scores of several factors significantly declined immediately after the surgery and then gradually improved. The EORTC global health score, which represents overall health status, returned to baseline levels at 12 months postoperatively. However, symptoms such as fatigue, dyspnea, and coughing did not return to baseline levels at 12 months postoperatively. Approximately 68% of the patients who were employed preoperatively continued to work at 12 months postoperatively. Conclusions: Lung cancer surgery significantly affected the HRQOL and employment status of the patients within the first 6 months after surgery. For patients who decide to return to work before full recovery of QOL, we consider the need for enhanced support to assist them as they can reintegrate into work and activities of daily living.