As World Cancer Day passed on 4 February 2026, new research conducted in January 2026 for GRiD, the industry body for the group risk sector, reveals that over half (56%) of employers report concerns about serious ill-health, including cancer, affecting their workforce.
These anxieties are mirrored at staff level, with as many as a quarter (25%) of over 60s – and 15% of the working population of all ages – being concerned about serious ill-health, including conditions such as cancer.
Significant portion of the workforce affected
Cancer affects a significant proportion of the working population, either directly or indirectly, such as through caring responsibilities, yet its true impact on the workplace is often hidden.
While some employees will have no choice but to inform their employer due to treatment, absence, or the need for adjustments, others may choose to keep a diagnosis private. As a result, many employers are unlikely to have a full picture of how cancer is affecting their workforce, or how many people are impacted, making it vital to provide and communicate support.
Katharine Moxham, spokesperson for GRiD, said:
“Cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges facing today’s workforce, yet for many employers its true impact is still only partially visible. This research highlights the scale of concern and the opportunity for employers to do more to ensure every individual feels supported and able to access the help they need.”
Meaningful cancer support
There are many ways employers can provide meaningful support, ranging from prevention and education through to access to treatment, second medical opinions, specialist oncologists, lifestyle support including fitness and nutrition, and financial support, from the point of diagnosis through to ongoing assistance.
It is essential that cancer support is comprehensive, visible, and easy to access, especially for those who may be managing their cancer journey quietly, under the radar of their employer.
Employers could better utilise cancer support
Employer-funded group risk benefits (group life assurance, group critical illness and group income protection) provide physical, mental, financial and practical support for people experiencing cancer, and it is largely included as standard at no additional cost.
While cancer accounts for the highest proportion of claims across all three benefits3, GRiD believes that the support could be even better utilised by staff and employers as they navigate a cancer diagnosis if they were aware of all the support available to them. Employers and advisers need to work together to ensure a good understanding, both at board level and throughout the business.
Katharine Moxham concluded:
“Cancer touches each person in their own way. Some need support at the very start, some partway through, some after treatment ends, and some from the first moment to the last. Support should never be something people stumble across by chance or discover halfway along. It should be visible, clear, and present from the beginning, ready for anyone who chooses to lean on it.”
