Events taking place around the world today will unite cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, advocates, clinicians and others to celebrate World Cancer Day.
Globally, more than eight million people are likely to succumb to cancer in 2016.
Under the campaign theme – We can. I can. – World Cancer Day represents an opportunity to draw attention to what can be done to reverse the impact of cancer and save lives. The “We” refers to what government, charities and employers can do, while the “I” recognizes individual efforts – such as eating less red and preserved meat, exercising regularly and cutting tobacco and alcohol use – that can help prevent cancer.
“It’s important for employers to remember that cancer survivors need support – not just during their illness, but also while they recover,” said Esther Green, director of the person-centred perspective portfolio at the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer. “After treatment, they’re adjusting to a ‘new normal’ that may mean some accommodations. World Canada Day is the ideal day to think about what patients need to make a healthy return to work.”
The Partnership is currently funding an initiative to create a Return to Work website aimed at employers, patients and their family, and clinicians.
Read on for articles and resources on how employers can support employees with cancer:
Chronic diseases connected to mental health issues
Confronting prostate cancer in the workplace
Cancer cases expected to jump 40% by 2030
Unequal funding and treatment for cancer costs employers
The dos and don’ts of dealing with cancer in the workplace
Support employees with incurable cancers
Benefits Canada is hosting its 2016 Employers Cancer Care Summit at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto on February 25, 2016. More details about the event and registration is available here