Work

Return to work after lung transplantation: a cross-sectional study of psychosocial and occupational determinants

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Lung transplantation is an effective treatment for end-stage pulmonary failure. However, patients face multiple challenges such as psychological and social adaptation after the surgery. Returning to work is a key indicator for evaluating postoperative recovery and quality of life, but there is insufficient relevant data in China. Therefore, this study, based on the biopsychosocial model, aims to explore the current situation and influencing factors of returning to work among Chinese lung transplant recipients. This cross-sectional study included lung transplant patients who were followed up at the Lung Transplant Center of Wuxi People’s Hospital from April to October 2023. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, the short Chinese Big Five Personality Questionnaire, the Return-to-Work Self-Efficacy Scale, the Social Support Scale, and the Lung Transplant-Specific Quality of Life Scale. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine independent predictors of return to work. Among the 135 lung transplant patients, 86 (63.7%) returned to work. Logistic regression analysis revealed that pre-transplant job type (mixed labor, OR = 7.151, 95% CI: 1.620-30.987, P = 0.009), postoperative duration (> 5.43 years, OR = 0.027, 95% CI: 0.007–0.108, P < 0.001), return-to-work self-efficacy (OR = 1.155, 95% CI: 1.040–1.282, P = 0.007), and agreeableness personality score (OR = 0.864, 95% CI: 0.755–0.988, P = 0.033) were independent factors of return to work. Approximately two-thirds of lung transplant recipients returned to work. Employment outcomes were associated with occupational, psychological, and social factors. These findings suggest that incorporating personality traits, self-efficacy, and physical capacity into rehabilitation planning may facilitate successful reemployment after lung transplantation. Not applicable.

Source: BMC Public Health

DOI: 10.1186/s12889-026-29127-w