Protecting workers with cancer in low- and middle-income countries: Policy lessons with global relevance

Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Jordan, often affecting people in their prime working years. The ability to remain employed during or after treatment is essential for financial stability, access to care, and well-being. Yet, legal protections for workers with cancer remain limited. This narrative review examines whether Jordanian labor and social protection laws safeguard the right of patients with cancer to work. It compares Jordan's legal framework with international policies from countries across income levels and provides policy recommendations based on identified gaps and best practices.

Jordan's Labor Law No. 8 of 1996 and Social Security Law No. 1 of 2014 were analyzed for provisions addressing illness, disability, and employment rights. Official publications, legal databases, and peer-reviewed literature were reviewed and discussed with policymakers and legal experts. Comparative examples from selected high-, middle-, and low-income countries were examined. Inclusion criteria encompassed national legislation, international conventions, and academic studies covering employment discrimination, medical and caregiver leave, workplace accommodations, and insurance protections for workers with chronic illnesses.

Jordan's framework offers limited protection for employees with serious health conditions. Statutory sick leave is capped at 14 days of full pay and 14 additional days at half pay, with no provisions for extended medical leave. The Labor Law lacks explicit prohibition of health- or disability-based discrimination. Social security benefits apply only to total and permanent incapacity, excluding temporary disability. Caregivers have no legal entitlement to leave, and about 35% of Jordanians remain uninsured. Because insurance is largely employer-linked, job loss can result in loss of coverage during treatment.

Jordan's labor and social protection laws do not adequately ensure the right of patients with cancer to work. Reforms should align national legislation with global standards, including anti-discrimination clauses, extended medical and caregiver leave, and continued access to health insurance.