Addressing the societal impact of women’s cancer – how AIA is leading the way

Cancer is a significant health issue that affects individuals and communities worldwide. At AIA, data reveals that cancer comprises a much larger proportion of claims for women compared to men, accounting for 25% of all lodged claims for women versus 18% for men. Cancer is also the third leading cause of Income Protection claims for women (21%) and the fourth leading cause for men (13%).
 

The disparity is even more stark when it comes to specific types of cancer.
 

Breast cancer is by far the most common, making up around 50% of cancer-related Income Protection claims by women and 10% of all AIA Income Protection claims by women.
 

The financial and emotional toll of these diseases cannot be overstated. Breast cancer alone makes up 10% of all Death claims for women, while Ovarian cancer accounts for 3% of all Death claims. This highlights the significant impact on women's health, financial security, and overall quality of life.

The disproportionate burden of cancer on working women has implications for their long-term financial security and retirement. Cancer can significantly impact a woman's ability to work and save for the future, with Australian data showing that 40% of people experiencing cancer never return to work.
 

However, AIA's Embrace program is making a difference. Customers who participate in the cancer recovery programs offered through AIA Embrace are 73% more likely to return to work and do so 16.5 weeks earlier. This not only supports women's financial wellbeing but also their overall sense of purpose and independence.

AIA is committed to addressing the societal impact of women’s cancer through a multifaceted approach. The AIA Embrace program features a range of initiatives designed to prevent, treat, and support recovery from cancer. 

AIA Vitality is also playing a crucial role in cancer prevention, with incentives for cancer screenings and health assessments. In 2022, almost 600 cancer screenings and over 15,000 health checks were completed. 

The Cancer Coach program, offered in partnership with Osara Health, provides educational and emotional support for customers diagnosed with cancer. This program has been shown to help customers see an 83% improvement in health goals. The coach program has seen a 35% increase in the number of customers accessing our other programs such as cancer specific exercise physiology programs, cancer wellness programs and return to work support.

As the exclusive life and health insurer for Australia's Mother's Day Classic fun run, AIA proudly supports fundraising for the National Breast Cancer Foundation and Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation, demonstrating our commitment to being part of the solution.

 

By supporting these organisations, we hope to drive early detection and improve health outcomes, enabling women to access improved treatment solutions and support. Our goal is to empower women to take control of their health and financial futures, making a tangible difference in their lives.
 

As a leader in the insurance industry, AIA is setting a new standard for how companies can support their customers and communities in the fight against cancer. Through the AIA Embrace program and ongoing efforts, AIA is paving the way for a future where women's health and financial security are prioritised, and the burden of cancer is significantly reduced.