With half of the working-age population expected to develop cancer, workplaces have an important role to play in supporting cancer-stricken employees.
This World Cancer Day, International SOS is urging organisations to integrate cancer support into their employee wellbeing strategies. In the UK, 96 percent of organisations do not have cancer-specific policies, and 77 percent of employees affected by cancer feel their benefits do not meet their needs.
International SOS data from 2022 to 2024 found that breast cancer as the most common cancer-related assistance request among women (28%), while prostate cancer accounts for 6.27 percent of requests among men.
Dr Kate O’Reilly, Medical Director at International SOS, said, “This gap in support underscores the urgent need for comprehensive cancer strategies within workplace wellbeing programmes. Educating employees about cancer risks, promoting healthy lifestyle choices and facilitating early detection are crucial measures to mitigate the risks of cancer and ensure employees receive the support they need throughout their health journey.”
The Five Cs of Cancer Workplace Support
International SOS has identified key areas where organisations can strengthen their cancer support strategies, referring to them as the five Cs of cancer workplace support:
Champion awareness and prevention by educating employees on cancer risks, early detection, and lifestyle choices. This can be done through workshops, internal communications, and access to screening programmes.
Care and support should be prioritised by providing employees with access to medical resources, counselling, and flexible work arrangements that accommodate treatment and recovery needs.
Communication and collaboration are essential in fostering an open and supportive work environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their health concerns without fear of discrimination. Managers should be trained to handle these conversations sensitively.
Conducting a workplace assessment helps identify potential cancer risks, such as exposure to carcinogens or lifestyle factors linked to increased cancer risk, including poor diet and physical inactivity. Organisations should implement control measures to promote a healthier working environment.
Confidentiality and respect are crucial, requiring clear policies on handling employee health information. Ensuring managers and supervisors know to protect privacy while offering support will help employees feel secure in disclosing their health needs.
O’Reilly added, “By understanding the specific needs of their workforce, organisations can more effectively tailor their cancer support programmes. This includes providing access to regular screenings and educational resources. It is essential for organisations to foster an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their health concerns and seeking the help they need.
“Ultimately, a proactive and inclusive approach to cancer care in the workplace not only benefits the individual but also enhances overall organisational resilience and productivity.”
