Page 121 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT FEBRUARY 2024

2/6/24, 10:52 AM Workplace Strategies to Promote Early Cancer Detection and Prevention
Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director at International SOS, India, comments “The fight against cancer in
most cases is an individual story that begins after a diagnosis is made. World Cancer Day is a time to
understand that collective efforts can prevent individual suffering. Employers can support their workforce by
generating awareness, facilitating regular cancer screening, and partnering with medical providers to inform,
identify and intervene early. This helps in reducing absenteeism, maintaining productivity, and ensuring

sustainability.”

Dr Vikram Vora adds “Having a well-designed employee health and wellbeing program that includes periodic
risk assessment for common cancers and onsite availability of health resources, helps employees make healthier

lifestyle choices, which in turn can significantly reduce cancer risk..”

International SOS outlines some strategies to mitigate cancer risk for employees and how organisations

can strengthen their workplace support:

1. Provide education and awareness:Educate employees about common cancer risks, warning signs and
available resources. Host regular workshops and information campaigns to empower employees to be
proactive about their health and seek prompt medical attention if they notice any potential symptoms.
2. Encourage regular screening: Early diagnosis of cancer nearly always results in better treatment
outcomes. Ensure employees’ health benefits cover key screenings and that your organisation’s policy
makes screenings feasible. Encourage employees to take time off for their annual medical exam.
3. Promote healthy habits: Provide access to healthy food options in your organisation’s cafeteria and onsite
vending machines. Implement initiatives such as wellness programmes, step challenges and discounted gym
memberships to encourage physical activity and healthy eating habits.
4. Encourage open communication:Create a safe and supportive environment where employees feel
comfortable discussing cancer concerns and accessing resources. Offer confidential counselling services
through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).
5. Conduct a workplace assessment:Analyse potential workplace hazards that might increase cancer risk,
such as exposure to carcinogens. Implement control measures to minimise risks and promote a healthy
working environment. Modern office work may also contribute directly to three cancer risk factors,
including excess body weight, diet and physical inactivity.
6. Implement a smoke-free workplace: 25% of all cancer deaths are caused by tobacco use and providing
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employees with smoking-cessation support helps reduce the risk. Enact a strict smoke-free policy to protect
employees from second-hand smoke, a significant cancer risk factor.
7. Provide holistic care and support: Extend employee assistance programmes to include cancer-specific
resources. Offer access to counselling, financial planning assistance and support groups throughout the
cancer journey.

About the International SOS Group of Companies

The International SOS Group of Companies is in the business of saving lives, protecting your global workforce
from health and security threats. Wherever you are, we deliver customised health, security risk management
and wellbeing solutions to fuel your growth and productivity. In the event of extreme weather, an epidemic or a
security incident, we provide an immediate response providing peace of mind. Our innovative technology and

medical and security expertise focus on prevention, offering real-time, actionable insights and on-the-ground
quality delivery. We help protect your people, your organisation’s reputation, as well as support your
compliance reporting needs. By partnering with us, organisations can fulfil their Duty of Care responsibilities,
while empowering business resilience, continuity and sustainability. Founded in 1985, the International SOS
Group, headquartered in London & Singapore, is trusted by nearly 9,000 organisations, including the majority
of the Fortune Global 500 as well as mid-size enterprises, governments, educational institutions, and NGOs.

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