Finding out that someone you work with has cancer can be difficult. You may have many questions, both about cancer itself and about how you should interact with this person. You may wonder how your work situation will be affected by their diagnosis and treatment. If you are very close to the person who has cancer, this can be a frightening and stressful time for you, too. Supervisors may wonder what they can do to best help the person while still getting the work done.

Your American Cancer Society (ACS) has prepared this document to answer some of your questions about cancer and the workplace. We also offer some suggestions about how you can talk about your concerns and offer your assistance to someone with cancer.