Earlier cancer diagnoses reshape workplace absence and wellbeing, Unum UK data shows 

Cancer is increasingly affecting people earlier in their working lives, creating new challenges for employers managing long-term absence and workforce wellbeing, according to new insight from Unum UK. 

The findings, based on Unum’s Group Income Protection claims data alongside national statistics, highlight a shift in how cancer is shaping workforce health across the UK. Rising incidence rates among working-age adults, combined with improved survival, mean more employees are living and working with cancer for longer. 

Cancer Research UK data shows the fastest growth in new diagnoses is now among working-age populations. This is reflected in Unum’s own claims data, which reveals that admitted cancer claims among employees under 40 rose by 36 per cent between 2024 and 2025. 

Cancer remains the leading cause of admitted Group Income Protection claims, with overall cancer-related claims increasing by 20 per cent since 2022. The data points to a sustained upward trend, with employers facing both a higher volume of cases and more complex absence patterns. 

A growing proportion of cancer-related absence is now occurring earlier in employees’ careers. This extends the period employers may need to provide support and increases the long-term impact on workforce planning, productivity and retention. 

Advances in treatment are also changing the nature of absence. While survival rates continue to improve, recovery journeys are often less predictable and can extend well beyond initial treatment. As a result, employers are increasingly managing cancer as a long-term condition within the workplace. 

Among employees under 40, the most common cancer-related claims are breast cancer, accounting for 28 per cent, followed by haematological cancers at 23 per cent and brain cancers at 15 per cent. 

The trend aligns with wider policy direction. The National Cancer Plan for England places a focus on earlier diagnosis, improved long-term outcomes and better support for people to live well with cancer beyond treatment. This has clear implications for workplace health strategies and employer responsibility. 

Paula Coffey, Director of Claims, Rehabilitation and Medical Services at Unum UK, said: “National data shows cancer is increasingly affecting people during their working lives, and our own claims experience reflects how this is playing out in the workforce. This warrants attention. 

“While outcomes continue to improve, recovery doesn’t always end when treatment ends. Earlier-onset cancer can involve longer and less predictable journeys back to work, changing both the duration and complexity of absence-related costs that employers need to manage. 

“That’s why Group Income Protection plays an increasingly important role, and why our in-house claims, clinical and rehabilitation teams work as one from the outset – providing joined-up, long-term support throughout treatment, recovery and return to work.” 

The findings underline the growing importance of integrating long-term condition support into workplace wellbeing strategies, as organisations respond to changing patterns of illness and absence in the UK workforce.