Rebecca V. Nellis, Cancer and Careers' Executive Director, was quoted in an article from SHRM (Society of Human Resource Management) about a recent influx of cancer diagnoses, and advice for employers on how to best support their employees. According to the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, more than 800 lung cancer screenings were postponed in March 2020. When screening resumed three months later, the percentage of people tested who had lung nodules had grown from 8% to 29%. 

The decision to a diagnosis at work is a long standing challenge. "With either choice, there are tons of questions and consequences to consider, including treatment side effects [and] workplace culture and the law," Nellis said. "The fear of losing one's job is real, as well as being treated differently or unfairly."

Another big decision patients must make is whether or not to continue working. "Misperceptions about what a particular cancer diagnosis means and requires is often another stumbling block for survivors who have to work or want to work," Nellis explained. CAC research shows 7 in 10 people who have been diagnosed with cancer prefer to continue working during treatment. "The benefits of working include necessities like a paycheck and insurance, but also feelings of normalcy, identity, routine, productivity and community," Nellis said.

Read the full article here.