Employment Outcomes among Cancer Survivors in the US: A Review of the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) Data

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-2025

Publisher

Springer

Source Publication

Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports

Source ISSN

2167-4833

Original Item ID

DOI: 10.1007/s40141-025-00509-2

Abstract

Purpose of review

This review examines demographic, health, and psychosocial predictors of employment among U.S. adult cancer survivors. Using data from the 2022 National Health Interview Survey (N = 1,312) and logistic regression analyses, we sought to identify factors influencing employment status and barriers to workforce participation.

Recent findings

Research shows cancer survivors face employment challenges due to treatment effects, functional limitations, and sociodemographic disparities. Health status, education, and workplace supports are increasingly recognized as key determinants, but nationally representative evidence remains limited.

Summary

Findings indicated that gender, age, education, health status, disability, and social participation difficulty were significant predictors of employment. Females and older adults had lower odds of employment, while higher education and better health increased employment likelihood. Disability and severe social participation difficulty reduced it. These results emphasize that employment outcomes are shaped by structural and health-related barriers. Addressing these factors through vocational rehabilitation and health programs can enhance survivors’ workforce reintegration and inform future interventions.

Comments

Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports, Vol. 13 (December 2025): 641-644. DOI

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