Bibliometric analysis of research hotspots and trends in cancer patients returning to work (2004–2024)

Background Return to work (RTW) is a critical aspect of recovery and social reintegration for cancer survivors. With increasing survival rates, understanding the research landscape in this field has become essential. Objective This study aims to systematically identify research hotspots, emerging trends, and development directions in the field of return to work among cancer patients through bibliometric analysis. Methods Relevant literature published between January 1, 2004, and May 31, 2024, was retrieved from the Web of Science （WoS） Core Collection. Bibliometric analysis and knowledge mapping were performed using CiteSpace for visualization. Results A total of 1370 relevant publications were retrieved, with 767 English articles included in the visualization analysis after screening. These publications originated from 54 countries, with more than 30 articles from 10 countries or regions. The top three countries in terms of publication volume were the Netherlands, the United States, and Australia. The leading institutions were the University of Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, and Academic Medical Center Amsterdam. The most prolific author was Frings-Dresen, M.H.W. The top five keywords were “Return to work,” “Breast cancer,” “Survivors,” “Quality of life,” and “Employment.” Keyword cluster analysis revealed 15 clusters, divided into four major categories: Population and Disease Types (cancer survivorship, cancer patients, head and neck cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer survivors), Health Promotion and Work Ability (return to work, work ability, health promotion, functional outcome), Health Economics and Injury Compensation (supervisor, health economics, disability pension, sick leave), and Research Types (scoping review). An emergent analysis of keywords indicates a shift from early terms like “quality of life,” “rehabilitation,” and “sick leave” to “needs,” “burden,” “impairment,” and “management.” Conclusion Breast cancer is the most common focus within studies on cancer patients returning to work, with colorectal and head and neck cancers gaining attention. Research is increasingly focused on the economic burden's impact on cancer survivors. Effective interventions could include employer-level initiatives, vocational counseling, patient education, psychological support, and multidisciplinary measures combining biofeedback-assisted behavioral training or physical exercise.