Approximately 40 percent of the more than one million Americans diagnosed with some form of cancer each year are working-age adults, and nearly 10 million Americans have a history of cancer.

Although there have been significant gains in cancer survival rates, the EEOC's concern is that employees with cancer and those who have survived cancer still face workplace barriers.

These barriers are due to supervisors' and co-workers' misconceptions about the employee's ability to work during and after receiving treatment.

Unlike in the past when cancer was often fatal, today many employees with cancer return to work with little to no effect on their productivity.

Using a question and answer format, the guidance discusses when cancer is considered a disability, when an employer may ask an applicant or employee questions about his or her cancer, how to deal with voluntary disclosures, what accommodations are reasonable, and how an employer can ensure they do not discriminate.

Employers may find this information helpful in managing employee performance issues related to cancer and cancer treatment. For information and the full text of the guidance visit www.eeoc.gov/facts/cancer.html.