Page 74 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT FEBRUARY 2024

2/5/24, 2:50 PM Workplace strategies to promote early cancer detection and prevention
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 employees with smoking-cessation support helps reduce the risk.5 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.

-Ends-

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

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