Many people, with their doctors' approval, work during part or all of their cancer treatment. Your decision to work or not to work during treatment is a highly personal one that must take many factors into consideration, including your overall health, any side effects you may be experiencing, your financial situation, the type of work you do and how demanding it is, and your personal preference. You may be reluctant to stop working because it may mean putting your career on hold or losing your position in the workplace.

Going to your job and accomplishing your usual tasks may help distract you from thinking about cancer. What's more, you may simply love your work and/or the routine of going to work and are on friendly terms with co-workers, who can be good sources of support and social interaction.

No matter why you may decide you would like to continue working during treatment, there's a lot to consider, including:

• Your company's policies on leaves of absence, sick leave, vacation, and paid and unpaid time off
  
• Your legal rights and the disability laws
  
• Talking to your employer and co-workers about your condition
  
• Managing the physical challenges of working during treatment

  To help you in planning what's best for you, talk things over with your doctor and your family, and go through the "4-Step Guide to Working During Treatment."

  Related Links
  A 4-Step Guide to Working During Treatment 
  The Long and Short of Disability 
  Know Your Legal Rights 
  Sharing the News at Work 
  Tips for Making It Through the Workday 
  Resources to Guide You
  Questions to Ask Your Doctor