Breast Cancer now affects 1 in 8 Women

The most common cancer for women makes most of the headlines today following updated figures released by Cancer Research UK (CRUK). In earlier posts, I’ve told you that I am doing some work with www.breasthealthuk.com because I truly believe we can do a great deal more to reduce the enormous financial and emotional costs of this disease.

We don’t place enough emphasis on early detection. Breast Cancer does not just affect older women as the following statistics show:

The risk for women aged 29 and under is one in 2,000.

The risk for women aged between 30 -39 is one in 215.

The risk for women aged 40 – 49 is one in 50, yes one in 50.

The NHS Breast Screening programme does not start until women are aged 50, although there is some move to bring this down to 47.

The risk for women aged 50 to 59 is one in 22.

The risk for women aged 60 to 69 is one in 13.

So what does this mean for employers?

Well, the risk of a female employee being diagnosed with breast cancer is higher than previously thought.

Many employers are concerned about the rising costs of breast cancer, particularly those who provide private medical insurance. But it’s not just about the direct treatment costs. The absence related costs and the strain on other ill health benefits are substantial.

Whilst helping their employees to reduce the risk factors through encouraging a healthier lifestyle, I can’t think of a better way for employers to address this issue than providing access to breast health awareness services and screening.

Aside from alleviating one of the biggest fears for female employees, such low cost investment makes complete economic sense.

If you want to discuss this for your own organisation, then please let me know.