How healthy is your office? Experts share key steps that employers can take to combat cancer risks

Cancer is not just a personal battle; it profoundly impacts families, workplaces, and communities. Surviving cancer, whether through cure or resilience, marks the beginning of a challenging journey that demands physical, emotional, and financial recovery. Ahead of World Cancer Day, let¡¯s discuss how employers play a pivotal role in supporting both cancer prevention and the reintegration of survivors into the workforce.

One of the most powerful strategies to combat cancer is its early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes. The physical and emotional health and well-being of employees can be significantly impacted by the work environment and working hours.

People spend a significant amount of their lives at work, where they may be exposed to risk factors including cigarettes, dangerous products, or excessive work hours. ¡°Unhealthy eating habits and physical inactivity are two known risk factors for cancer that can be exacerbated by workplace practices,¡± says Dr. Nanda Rajaneesh, Visiting Consultant - Breast Onco Surgery & Bariatric Surgery, Sakra World Hospital Bengaluru.

As a result, the workplace can play a significant role in influencing health behaviours and reducing the risk of cancer.

Workplace strategies to promote early cancer detection

Through workshops and campaigns, workplace strategies should inform staff members about common cancer risks, warning signals, and available resources. Encouraging early cancer detection.

Confirming that important tests are covered by health plans for employees and that screenings are made possible by your organisation's policy. access to on-site vending machines and nutritious food options in the cafeteria of your company.

Diet and nutrition play a major role in cancer prevention

A nutritious diet includes rice, positive millets, jowar, sprouts, fruits like pomegranate, apricots, figs, and vegetables such as spinach and beans. Hydration is key with water, coconut water, thin buttermilk, and unsweetened lemon water. ¡°Add green olive oil, fresh fruit juice (without sugar), and thin vegetable or non-veg soups. Vegetarians can rely on paneer, curd, and buttermilk for protein, while non-vegetarians can include small portions of fish, eggs, and meat (avoid red meat). Avoid added sugars and foods identified as allergens,¡± recommends Dr. Rajaneesh.

Antioxidants like vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, selenium, and flavonoids help combat cell damage, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, support immunity, and promote healthy ageing. Include antioxidant-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, tea, and dark chocolate for better health.

Establish a welcoming and safe space where staff members can talk about cancer concerns and get help. Examine any job risks, such as exposure to carcinogens, that could raise the risk of developing cancer. Put control mechanisms in place to reduce risks and encourage a safe workplace.

How employers can make a difference in the fight against cancer

The three cancer risk factors of nutrition, physical inactivity, and excess body weight may also be directly impacted by modern office jobs.

Employees who receive smoking cessation support are less likely to be at risk for secondhand smoke, which contributes to 25% of all cancer fatalities. Dr. Vikram Vora, Medical Director, International SOS (Indian Subcontinent), says, ¡°Even with all these in place, some employees may still be detected with cancer. And since employees recovering from cancer face long-term physical and mental challenges, inclusive workplace design can ensure their successful reintegration.¡±

¡°Flexible working hours, remote work options, recovery leave, and phased return-to-work plans tailored to individual needs can help tremendously,¡± says Dr. Vora.

Workplaces can contribute significantly to this by:

• Conducting regular awareness sessions on the importance of routine health check-ups and early warning signs of common cancers, such as skin, breast, cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancers.
• Offer on-site or offsite cancer screening, either as a standalone service or as part of annual health checks, including mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies, and PSA tests.
• Provide expert guidance on self-examinations, particularly for breast and testicular cancer, and highlight the importance of early detection.
• Utilise workplace communication channels or apps to remind employees about periodic screenings and vaccinations, such as the HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines.
• A comprehensive and inclusive health and wellbeing policy that addresses the needs of employees at every stage of cancer care¡ªprevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery¡ªshould be in place.
• Facilitating access to teleconsultations, second-opinion services, and reliable cancer care providers.
• Offering health insurance policies that include illness coverage.

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