How early cancer detection can help your business

World Cancer Day reminds us of the urgent need for proactive cancer prevention and care approaches. This year’s theme, “United by Unique,” highlights the importance of tailored health solutions for individuals and organisations. 

In the UK, cancer not only impacts personal lives but also significantly affects the workforce, with over 100,000 working-age adults diagnosed annually. The economic burden on businesses is substantial, with increased absenteeism, healthcare costs, and reduced productivity.

By prioritising early cancer detection and prevention, businesses can actively safeguard employee wellbeing and mitigate these impacts.

Understanding Cancer Risks and Symptoms

Early-stage cancer often presents no noticeable symptoms, making regular health screenings crucial. Here are some key risks and potential early indicators for common cancers:

• Prostate Cancer: The most common cancer in men, with 1 in 8 men diagnosed in their lifetime. Symptoms may include difficulty urinating or blood in the urine.
• Bowel Cancer: A sedentary lifestyle and poor diet can increase risk by up to 44%. Early signs include changes in bowel habits and blood in the stool or lower abdominal pain.
• Cervical Cancer: High-risk HPV infections are the leading cause, but regular screening can catch abnormalities before cancer develops. Early signs of cervical cancer would include abnormal vaginal bleeding, for example, in between periods or after sex, or abnormal vaginal discharge.
• Breast and Testicular Cancer: Routine self-checks and clinical screenings are key, as these cancers can develop silently. Early signs include feeling a lump or an irregularity. 

Risk factors such as family history, lifestyle choices, and age make early detection a vital step in prevention.

Implications for Employers and Employee Health

Cancer in the workplace isn’t just a personal challenge—it’s an organisational one. Employees battling cancer often face physical and mental health challenges that affect their performance. For employers, this translates to:

• Increased absenteeism and staff turnover
• Higher healthcare and insurance costs
• Loss of talent and reduced morale among teams

Employers who prioritise their workforce's health see benefits in improved productivity, loyalty, and workplace culture. Providing access to health resources and flexible support systems, such as Qured’s early cancer screening, is an important part of a workplace wellness programme. 

Why Early Screening is Essential

Early detection saves lives. Catching cancer in its initial stages often means:

• Less invasive and more effective treatment options
• Lower healthcare costs for both individuals and organisations
• Shorter recovery times, enabling employees to return to work sooner

The most important thing in catching cancer early is to identify it, ideally before you have any symptoms, which is why screening is so important. Yet many individuals delay screenings due to time constraints, fear, or lack of access. Supporting proactive health measures, as well as creating a safe environment to ask questions and take time to get tested, can empower individuals to seek care earlier.

Day-to-Day Practices for Cancer Prevention

Prevention starts with everyday habits that support a healthy lifestyle. While no strategy can guarantee immunity, these practices can significantly reduce cancer risk:

1. Maintain a balanced diet: Focus on nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed and red meats, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol consumption.
2. Stay physically active: Aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate weekly exercise to maintain a healthy weight and boost your immune system.
3. Don’t skip screenings: Regular health check-ups and cancer screenings are crucial, even when you feel healthy. Early detection is often life-saving.
4. Avoid tobacco: Smoking is one of the leading causes of cancer. Quitting or avoiding tobacco entirely reduces your risk significantly.
5. Protect your skin: Use sunscreen, avoid tanning beds, and stay in the shade during peak sun hours to reduce skin cancer risk.
6. Manage stress and sleep: Chronic stress and lack of sleep can weaken your immune system. Practice stress management techniques like mindfulness and ensure 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
7. Get vaccinated: Vaccinations like the HPV vaccine can prevent cancers linked to infections.
8. Regular self-examination: Checking for any changes in your breasts or testicles is crucial to help you identify the normal from abnormal. You should do this at least once a month. For women, this should be done in the first week after your period, and for men, it should be after a hot shower or bath. 

Adopting these daily habits is a powerful way to take control of your health and reduce cancer risks.

Key Takeaways

1. Cancer is a workforce issue: With over 100,000 working-age diagnoses yearly, UK employers are directly affected.
2. Prevention starts now: Lifestyle changes and proactive health measures can make a meaningful difference.
3. Early detection is vital: Screenings and health awareness save lives and improve outcomes.

Take the First Step Today

This World Cancer Day, prioritise health and cancer prevention. Encourage employees to embrace healthier habits and ensure regular health check-ups to create a more resilient and thriving workforce. Start by making a difference in the fight against cancer with employee health screening. Get in touch.

For more information, read more of our articles on cancer at the workplace here.