• Cancer is contagious. It has been proven time and time again that cancer is no more contagious than heart
disease or arthritis. Yet surprisingly, some people still cling to this antiquated notion. Superstition is the basis
for this myth, which can result in a survivor's unnecessary isolation from peers at work.
• Cancer makes workers unproductive. Perhaps the most widespread belief, this myth assumes that once
you've had cancer, you won't be able to contribute fully to your job. Despite employers' concerns, turnover
and absentee rates are not higher for cancer survivors. According to a study conducted in the United States by
MetLife Insurance and Bell Telephone, survivors showed no difference in any aspect of job performance than
non-survivors. On the contrary, survivors often work harder to prove that they are still able to compete in the
workplace.
Questions to Ask Yourself When You Are Back at Work When you do get back to work, you may notice many changes in the way your employer and co-workers treat you. Some of these changes may be subtle, some may be blatant. Ask yourself:
• Have your responsibilities been reduced?
• Have you been transferred without prior consent?
• Have you been overlooked for a promotion?
• Are co-workers or superiors treating you differently?
• Have you been required to take a medical exam that is unrelated to your job duties?
