In a BINJE article, Ada Chen, PhD, discusses new research on work after cancer. The study found that many cancer survivors return to work with reduced hours, lower pay, lost benefits, or limited career advancement. The study included more than 3,000 cancer survivors across the United States. Dr. Chen is a research scientist in Kessler Foundation’s Center for Employment and Disability Research.

In the article, “Cancer survivors are returning to work, but many are paying a hidden price, Kessler researcher says,” Dr. Chen explained, “What we’re seeing is that it’s less about getting back to work and more about the quality of that work.”

Long-term effects such as fatigue, pain, weakness, and cognitive changes can continue for years and may not be visible to coworkers or managers. These findings point to the importance of workplace flexibility, reasonable accommodations, and supportive employers, said Dr. Chen.