Prevention of breast cancer at work: How can employers help?

Breast cancer is the most frequent oncological disease in women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is diagnosed in more than 2.3 million patients annually and is the leading cause of cancer deaths among women. Early diagnosis, however, dramatically increases the chances of recovery, in some cases to more than 90%.

Therefore, prevention and health care must not remain only in the private sphere. Women spend a considerable part of their lives at work, and so the workplace can become a place where they are given support, information, and conditions to take more responsible care of their health.

How can employers help?

Actively reminding the importance of self-examination

Self-examination of breasts is a simple, quick, and effective step that can save lives. Companies can regularly include this topic in their internal newsletters, posters, workshops, or campaigns. Even a simple reminder on the intranet or in a company email can encourage women to find a few minutes for themselves each month to check their own health.

Investing in health days and mobile screenings

Not everyone has got time or courage to make an appointment for an examination. This is where a space for employers opens – by organizing health days or providing mobile mammography examinations directly at the workplace. Such initiatives not only increase the availability of screening, but can also strengthen corporate culture. Female employees clearly sense that their health is a priority for the company, not just a formality.

Establishing “prevention as the norm”

Just as it is a matter of course to pay attention to work safety and hygiene standards, health prevention should also be a natural part of the corporate environment. When a company  openly communicates these issues, it removes taboos and turns prevention into something utterly common and natural.

Encouraging open communication

Many women hesitate to take time off work for medical appointments. The concern of how colleagues or managers will react often discourages them from taking this important step. However, if the employer makes it clear that they support such absences, these obstacles vanish. Open communication and trust between management and employees can be what gets a woman to her appointment on time.

Investing in prevention means investing in people and thus in the future of society:
– fewer absences, more energy and satisfaction in teams
– stronger employer branding, where the company is a responsible partner
– demonstration of social responsibility that has a real impact

Prevention of breast cancer is not just a healthcare topic, it is a challenge for the whole society, including companies. Employers have the opportunity to support their female employees in one of the most important aspects of their lives, namely caring for health. Every reminder, every initiative, and every gesture of support can be the one decisive moment that saves someone’s life.

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