Financial security and cancer

Considering the implications of living with cancer.

14:20 06 August 2009

We all worry about our health to a certain degree, but when it comes to more serious issues such as cancer it’s still easy to take an ‘out-of-sight, out-of-mind’ approach.

Despite many people knowing a friend or family member who has been affected by the disease, most may still think it will never happen to them.

However statistics from Cancer Reseach UK show that over 45,000 women across the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer each year - thatÂ’s more than 100 British women being diagnosed on a daily basis - and three quarters of women affected are under 70 years of age.

High profile celebrity cancer patients have helped increase public awareness in womenÂ’s cancer. This, combined with the positive changes to the way such issues are now talked about in society and improvements in technology, has lead to earlier diagnosis, meaning more women are able to successfully fight the disease.

Breast cancer survival rates in particular have improved dramatically over the last 20 years – eight out of 10 would survive if they were diagnosed today. Yet anyone could be struck down with cancer at any time and, contrary to popular belief, the disease does not just affect those with a family history or poor lifestyle. However, it is not just the health and emotional demands that cause distress, the financial implications too are worth consideration.

Many are unaware of the financial consequences a cancer diagnosis would have on their lives and family. With having to take time off work, many patients find themselves without enough money to cover the things we take for granted in good health, such as paying for bills or childcare costs.

According to Macmillan Cancer Support, one in four cancer patients admit having difficulty keeping up with payments whilst fighting the disease – with many suffering real financial hardship. ItÂ’s an additoinal stress patients could do without, at a time when they need concentrate on getting better. 

The video below gives expert information on the risks and causes of female specific cancers, as well as possible ways to get financial help for yourself and your family should you be diagnosed with cancer:

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