Experts believe that the patients are afraid of causing trouble to the company, so they still work during their treatment in the hospital.

A hospital room in Japan. Photo: Kyodo.

Nearly 82% of 1,030 cancer or cardiovascular patients surveyed by the Japanese Ministry of Health said they were still working on treatment in the hospital, including making reports and preparing for work. Back to his office, Kyodo reported on December 15.

The survey was conducted from December 2017 to March at 25 major hospitals in Japan. Subjects are people between the ages of 20 and 64, who have been hospitalized for the past 5 years. 91.1% of participants admitted that they used to use smartphones to work in common spaces in their hospitals or clinics.

“I think the survey reflects the reality. Patients may think they have caused problems for the company and have to work even when they are admitted to the hospital. However, they should not forget that they need to take priority. treatment, “said Naomi Sakurai, director of an organization supporting workers who are receiving cancer treatment.

Survey results demonstrate that many patients have difficulty concentrating on treatment. While the government is promoting awareness of the need to strike a balance between work and treatment, some experts call for a better environment.

Japan is famous for being a country with a harsh working environment. According to a survey, Japanese workers are entitled to 20 days off per year, but 35% of them do not use this benefit.