National Cancer Prevention Month, observed in February, stands as a strong reminder of the collective effort required to combat cancer of all types. This dedicated month aims to raise awareness, emphasize prevention strategies and empower individuals and their workplaces to take proactive steps towards reducing the risk of cancer, essential components in the fight against this prevalent disease.

The importance of this awareness month cannot be overstated. Cancer affects millions globally, taking a toll on individuals and society at large. It’s estimated that over 2 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in 2024. Homes and workplaces can both feel the burden, with decreased motivation and productivity due to illness, absenteeism and the emotional toll on employees and their families. Prioritizing cancer prevention not only supports individual wellbeing but also contributes to a healthier, more resilient workforce.

The prevalence of cancer can significantly impact workplaces, affecting employee health, productivity and overall morale. When employees or their loved ones face a cancer diagnosis, they often experience heightened stress, emotional strain and practical challenges. Employers have a crucial role in supporting employees facing cancer by fostering a supportive work environment, providing flexible work arrangements, offering access to counseling and resources and maintaining open communication channels.

• Education and Awareness Campaigns: Employers can organize workshops and educational sessions focused on cancer prevention, emphasizing the importance of early detection and healthy lifestyle choices.
• Encourage Health Screenings: Encourage employees to undergo regular health checkups and cancer screenings because early detection can save lives. We have two providers in our Partner Marketplace that offer this, including help navigating a cancer diagnosis. Many of our participating Boost insurance carriers offer cancer insurance or an essential tool to help with expenses if one is diagnosed. These plans help with expenses that aren’t typically covered through a regular health plan such as household bills and other everyday family expenses. Cancer insurance can also cover extra cancer screenings, providing an extra layer of protection if an employee is at high risk or if cancer runs in their family. In addition, many of our insurance carrier partners offer benefits that cover preventive care.
• Healthy Lifestyle Promotion: Promote healthy behaviors such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, smoking cessation and limited alcohol consumption. Excess body weight, poor nutrition, physical inactivity and excessive alcohol consumption is directly linked to about 1 in 5 cancer cases due to the effects on the body’s immune system, inflammation, hormones and proteins.
• Supportive Work Environment: Foster a workplace culture that supports employees facing cancer, offering flexible work arrangements and access to support groups or counseling services.

National Cancer Prevention Month serves as a pivotal reminder of the importance of proactive measures in combating cancer. By championing prevention strategies, fostering awareness and providing support to employees, workplaces can play a significant role in reducing the impact of this disease. Through collective efforts and a commitment to promoting healthy living, workplaces can become a beacon of support, contributing to a society where cancer prevention and awareness are at the forefront of health initiatives.