Survey: Cancer Patients Seek 10-Day Treatment Leave; Tax Cuts Urged to Foster Friendly Workplaces

(CNA, Taipei, 28th) A survey has pointed out that over half of cancer patients in Taiwan have a need to work, but find it difficult to balance treatment and employment. They are calling for an annual addition of 10 days of cancer treatment leave. 92.7% of patients believe that through tax reductions or subsidies, it would help promote 'Cancer-Friendly Workplaces' among enterprises. The Taiwan Breast Cancer Alliance announced the results of the 'Public Opinion Survey on Employment Needs of Cancer Patients' today. The survey targeted patients nationwide who were employed at the time of their diagnosis. Conducted online from March 13 to 31, it collected 1,068 samples with a margin of error of +/- 2.99% at a 95% confidence level. The subjects were 86.1% female and 13.9% male; 74.3% were breast cancer patients. Most were in stages 1 or 2, with nearly 50% having completed primary treatment and currently under follow-up. The largest age group was 40-49 years old. While 86% were full-time at the time of diagnosis, that has dropped to 62.6% now. Findings show 63.9% continue working due to economic necessity. 'Difficulty taking leave affecting treatment' is a major external factor for resignation. Nearly 84% need leave for treatment, but 46.1% have difficulty obtaining it. 92% believe treatment affects work, but only 28.8% received workload or hour reductions. Notably, over 30% hope for '10 extra days of treatment leave.' Over 90% support adjusted roles with productivity-based pay. 95.2% agree HR personnel should receive 'Cancer-Friendly Workplace Training.' Legislator Wang Cheng-hsu called for amending the 'Cancer Prevention Act' to include labor rights. Legislator Chen Ching-hui highlighted the higher need for working while treating due to singlehood and low birth rates, urging tax subsidies for flexible work. Alliance Chairperson Huang Shu-fang urged establishing friendly leave mechanisms so leave doesn't become a barrier to treatment.