Whether you can continue work, school, and other activities depends on your treatment and how it affects you. For some treatments, you may need to stay in a hospital for a week or more, but most people are able to keep working during treatment. You might be able to schedule your treatments late in the day or right before the weekend so that they interfere with work as little as possible.

If chemo makes you tired, try to adjust your work schedule for a while. You may be able to arrange a part-time schedule or work from home. Federal and state laws may require some employers to allow you to work a flexible schedule during your treatment.

To find out more about your rights as an employee, call your local American Cancer Society office or our toll-free number, or email us. You may also find out about employment-related rights by contacting your congressional or state representatives.

Last Medical Review: 08/28/2008
Last Revised: 09/11/2008