Importance of doctor-initiated management of the balance between work and treatment for lung cancer patients: Results of a nationwide survey by the Japan Lung Cancer Society

Backgrounds: Since the recent development of molecular targeted drugs and immune checkpoint inhibitors has improved lung cancer treatment options and outcomes, supporting patients in balancing work and pharmacotherapy have become even more important in the field of lung cancer treatment. This study sought to identify the current status and roles of doctors in balancing work and treatment for lung cancer patients.

Methods: Patients and doctors were recruited to complete a web-based questionnaire survey by the Japan Lung Cancer Society.

Results: About 287 lung cancer patients and 381 doctors were included in the analysis. About 42.9% of patients responded that "there was no discussion" about their working conditions or work before the initiation of pharmacotherapy, while 22.6% responded that "there was an inquiry from a doctor/health care provider and a discussion that included the doctor was held." About 45.3% of patients took leave or resigned from work at the time of diagnosis. The most common reasons for patients to resign before or during pharmacotherapy were "poor physical condition due to side effects of treatment or illness" and "concern about causing problems in the workplace." To assist in balancing work and pharmacotherapy, patients desired "increased opportunities to consult about work" (36.9%) and "provision of treatment options with few adverse events" (28.9%).

Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of doctor-initiated management of the balance between work and treatment for lung cancer patients. An important first step is for doctors themselves to take an interest in their patients' professions and initiate discussions of work-related topics with their patients.