Authors: Kelly Bonanno Richard A. Egleston Courtney Schroeder
Breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among women in the US, making awareness and early detection crucial. The American Cancer Society highlights that when breast cancer is detected early and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.1 Regular screenings are key in catching breast cancer at this stage, significantly increasing survival chances. Today, about 66% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at a localized stage, where treatment is most effective.1
The US Preventive Services Task Force, which has long provided screening recommendations, recently expanded its guidelines to include women starting at age 40.2 This change is in response to rising breast cancer rates among younger women, with diagnoses increasing by approximately 2% annually in this age group.
Although busy personal and professional lives can make self-care feel challenging, the Centers for Disease Control reminds us that, aside from age and genetics, we can actively reduce the risk of breast cancer by adopting healthy habits such as:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a risk factor for developing cancer in both men and women.
- Stay physically active: Research has shown that physically active women have a lower risk of breast cancer than inactive women.3 Try to move at least 20 minutes every day to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer.
- Don't smoke: Smoking and second-hand smoke are significant risk factors for various cancers, including breast cancer.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Frequent consumption of alcohol can increase risk for breast cancer.
- Schedule your screenings: Mammograms and other preventive exams are vital in catching potential health issues early when they are easier to treat
It's essential to address health equity to ensure all women have access to screenings and treatment. Many women, particularly those in rural areas or with lower incomes, face barriers to the care they need, underscoring the importance of ongoing research and outreach.
Real-life resilience: A Gallagher employee's journey
Breast Cancer Awareness Month took on new meaning for me in 2020 when my colleague and best friend, Sharon, was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. The news was devastating, and nothing could have prepared me for what would unfold over the next 15 months. Sharon's journey was a mix of gut-wrenching challenges, eye-opening realities and awe-inspiring resilience.
Throughout her treatment, Sharon endured the loss of her hair and eyebrows, as well as painful neuropathy in her feet. Through it all, Sharon underwent 29 chemo infusions, took 800 chemotherapy pills, had six surgeries, and even battled COVID-19 while her immune system was at its weakest. Despite these immense challenges, Sharon emerged stronger, thanks to her medical team, family, friends, and supportive Gallagher colleagues.
It's crucial to support employees through tough times, offering both comforting and practical resources. An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides meaningful services such as family counseling and mental healthcare. Additionally, voluntary benefits like a cancer policy can offer financial relief for expenses such as family lodging when receiving treatment or procedures essential for restoring health.
Voluntary benefits: A lifeline during challenging times
Financial concerns are a significant barrier to preventive care, with 47% of women postponing preventive services due to costs.1 This barrier is where voluntary benefits, such as Critical Illness plans, play a crucial role. These plans provide financial support for out-of-pocket expenses that core health plans may not cover, as well as financial incentives for undergoing recommended preventive screenings.
The development of Critical Illness plans dates back over 30 years when Dr. Marius Bernard, a pioneer in open-heart surgery, recognized the need for financial protection during serious illnesses. He worked with an insurance carrier to develop the first Critical Illness plan in South Africa, aiming to help families manage the financial burden of serious health conditions.
At Gallagher, we help our clients evaluate Critical Illness plans that will help their employees financially when faced with a serious illness, including cancer. In addition to benefits that pay upon diagnosis, Critical Illness plans pay benefits for preventive wellness screenings, to encourage employees to get their annual exams.
Your role in promoting health and wellbeing
As an employer, you have the unique opportunity to promote health and wellbeing among your employees by offering robust voluntary benefits. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take the step to educate your workforce on the importance of early detection, the change in screening guidelines and the financial protections available.
