When Breast Cancer Threatens Your Job

Having a breast cancer diagnosis is hard enough without worrying about job security. With supportive employers, many women continue to work during cancer treatments like chemotherapy. But other women, often in low-paying positions or small organizations, are more vulnerable. And no matter what your career, cancer-related fatigue, nausea and medical appointments mean you'll likely have to negotiate for time off and extra breaks throughout your treatment and recovery. If you're among the 12 percent of U.S. women who develops breast cancer at some point in her life, experts provide insight about disclosing your illness, workplace protections and available resources if job loss looms.