Supporting and raising awareness of breast cancer in the workplace

Breast cancer is, unfortunately, very common. In their lifetime,?1 in 7 UK females?will be diagnosed with it, and the impact of this diagnosis, on their mental health, relationships, personal life and work, can be devastating.

With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s an ideal time to ensure your teams are confident supporting those who are affected by breast cancer in your workplace.

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Breast cancer in the workplace

In the UK, approximately 13,200 people of working age are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. ?

77% of women with breast cancer believe that working supports their recovery—a view shared by 92% of healthcare providers—citing reasons including personal fulfilment and a desire to maintain a sense of normality. However, without adequate workplace support, the impact of breast cancer can significantly hinder a person’s ability to work effectively.

The side effects of treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, coupled with the stress and emotional strain of a cancer diagnosis, can impact concentration, productivity and overall mental health and wellbeing. Frequent medical appointments and treatment schedules can also disrupt work routines, leading to increased absence.

Unfortunately, there seems to be a lack of awareness around breast cancer issues in the workplace, with a significant communication gap between patients, healthcare providers and employers. While 73% of employers claim to offer support such as flexible hours and schedule adjustments, only 22% of women with a diagnosis are aware that such accommodations are available.

Moreover, a study from the Cancer Experience Registry revealed that nearly 50% of women who left their jobs after a cancer diagnosis did not do so by choice, while 20% reported some kind of job discrimination and 12% experienced "involuntary changes to their work schedules”.

What employers can do to help

Given the high prevalence of breast cancer, it’s crucial for employers to do more to raise awareness and support employees’ health in the workplace.

A good place to start is by implementing educational programmes and awareness campaigns on risk factors and the importance of early detection, offering health services like screenings, or simply signposting employees to specific support services such as?Breast Cancer Now, which provides a wide range of resources and information.

Staff training will ensure managers and colleagues understand the physical, emotional and mental health impact that a diagnosis of breast cancer can have. Providing tailored adjustments, such as flexible hours and remote work options, is vital for helping employees going through cancer to manage their health while maintaining their professional roles.

Additionally, providing paid leave for medical appointments and recovery time from treatments will help to reduce the financial burden on employees already having to cope with the stress of health worries.

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If you need guidance on how to effectively support employees following a breast cancer diagnosis and the practical help you can offer to enable them to balance their health needs with their professional responsibilities, please reach out to us.

You can get in touch here. ?

Breast cancer awareness resources

1. Breast Cancer Now | The research and support charity
2. Breast Cancer Awareness Month | Breast Cancer UK
3. Breast Cancer Awareness Month (macmillan.org.uk)

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