As May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month we are shining a light on the critical importance of preventative skin cancer screening in saving lives. With skin cancer rates on the rise globally, early detection through regular screenings has emerged as a powerful tool in combating this potentially deadly disease.
According to Cancer Research UK, skin cancer diagnosis reached 17,500 cases in 2023, the highest rate since records began. Approximately 86% of skin cancer cases can be attributed to exposure to UV radiation from the sun. However, despite its prevalence, skin cancer is highly treatable if detected early.
Preventative skin cancer screenings involve examinations of the skin to identify any suspicious moles, lesions, or abnormalities. These screenings are particularly crucial for individuals with risk factors such as fair skin, a history of sun exposure, a family history of skin cancer, or a weakened immune system.
Within the private medical insurance industry cancer screening services are seeing an increase in demand. Some benefit providers, such as Medicash and HealthShield, are including app-based technology via SkinVision, as part of their benefits offering. The SkinVision app enable members to carry out initial screening quickly and easily on their mobile phones. Uploading photos of any suspicious moles or skin abnormalities, generates results within seconds, confirming whether further medical intervention is required.
Wider screening services to include other types of cancer, such as bowel, breast and prostate cancer are also available via other providers. Check4Cancer, for example, is a trusted and reliable provider of cancer screening and diagnostic services to the insured, corporate and self-funding sectors. If insured with the likes of AXA Health, WPA and Vitality, direct referral pathways or discounted screening is available via Check4Cancer, with no need for GP referral, resulting in faster appointment times and quicker results.
In addition to the medical benefits, preventative cancer screenings can also result in significant cost savings for healthcare claims. Early detection and treatment of cancer can mitigate the need for extensive and costly interventions that may be required in advanced stages of the disease.
Ultimately, the message is clear: early detection saves lives. By proactively managing health concerns and identify risk factors, individuals can reduce their risk of cancer and other serious illnesses, protecting their wellbeing for years to come.
If you are interested in exploring cancer screening, please get in touch today and one of our Employee Benefit Advisers can talk you through the options available.