Researchers at the University of Michigan estimate that cancer screenings have saved $6.5 trillion over the past 25 years. They also suggest that if all eligible Americans were screened, it would add 3.3 million life-years to national life expectancy.
About 70% of cancer deaths occur from cancers that do not yet have validated screening protocols. However, blood testing for cancer biomarkers is currently in development and expected to improve testing and early diagnosis rates.
Preventive breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening is part of Highmark Well360 employer group solutions. “Every member gets a personalized preventive schedule of care,” says Megan Guido, Lead Marketing Strategist, Highmark Health. In addition to cancer screenings, a preventive care schedule also includes vaccinations and annual wellness checks.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. says that 13% of women will get diagnosed with breast cancer at some point. It is a leading cancer in American women, with a woman being newly diagnosed every two minutes.
The majority of breast cancers are identified before they have spread to other parts of the body. Five-year survival rates are almost 100% at this early stage. There are strong genetic and racial connections to any individual woman’s chance of developing breast cancer.
Women should begin annual breast cancer screenings at the age of 40. Preventive screenings — mammograms — are normally easy to schedule within the Highmark network of care. Specialized diagnostic screening for lumps or other self- or provider-detected breast abnormalities has a longer lead time for appointments.
Employers can stress the importance of breast cancer screening, especially during Breast Cancer Awareness month in October. Companies can participate in local fundraising walks or sponsor “Go Pink” days at work. Awareness days can serve as an important reminder. Some women put off their mammograms during the COVID-19 pandemic and are not yet back on schedule.
Experts estimate that there will be almost 53,000 U.S. deaths attributed to colorectal cancer (CRC) in 2025. As with most cancers, disparities exist among different different ethnic and socioeconomic groups. There is also a genetic component for people with a family history of CRC.
Advances in at-home CRC screening have improved testing rates. Screening includes the delivery of a FIT (fecal immunochemical test) kit with supplies, instructions, and return mailing labels. A positive outcome with at-home testing warrants follow-up with a traditional colonoscopy under anesthesia.
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, providing an opportunity to educate employees about updated screening guidelines. The latest guidance from the American Cancer Society recommends beginning colorectal cancer screening at age 45, instead of 50.
Cervical cancer screening guidelines have also changed. What was once an annual test is now recommended every three to five years based on age. Screening recommendations include all adult women aged 21 to 65.
Cervical cancer screening rates have yet to rebound after the COVID-19 pandemic. Screening guidelines recommend human papillomavirus (HPV) and/or Pap tests to look for abnormal cells. The majority of cervical cancers have HPV as the root cause.
Screening is down 14% among women of all ages and educational status, including those with private and employer-provided insurance (2019 – 2023). This lapse has led to more late-stage cervical cancer diagnoses versus early-stage detection.
Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is in January. Educational materials and communications can encourage employees to ensure they — and their loved ones — are current with screenings and HPV vaccinations.
Building awareness of cancer and preventive screening opportunities is part of building a culture of health and wellness. “The most important thing for employer clients is to ensure their employees receive our member communications,” stresses Guido. “Employers just need to tell their account manager to opt in for all member messaging from Highmark. Simple.”
Messages include health education, awareness and observance months, and reminders that make it easy to find a provider. Members can also check their My Highmark app for information on available screening tests and other preventive care offerings.
All references to “Highmark” in this communication are references to Highmark Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, and/or to one or more of its affiliated Blue companies.
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