Healthcare costs from cancer on the rise

Sunday, 16 January 2011 16:00

News - Health Care Costs

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Researchers at the National Institutes of Health's National Cancer Institute have reported that by 2020, costs stemming from cancer treatment could reach $158 billion — a 27 percent increase — if current rates of cancer incidence and survival continue.

Increasing healthcare costs could possibly push that number further, but employers who implement wellness programs that stress disease prevention and offer employee health benefits that include preventative measures may be able to curb some of these hikes.

The study reports that if healthcare and technology costs increase by 2 percent each year, they could reach $173 billion in 10 years. If costs increase annually by 5 percent, the number could be as high as $207 billion. Such figures do not factor in loss of productivity due to the illness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends screenings, especially for cervical, colorectal and breast cancers. Vaccines for the human papillomavirus and hepatitis B can help reduce cervical and liver cancers, respectively. The CDC also advocates eating fresh produce as well as staying fit and active to help prevent chronic health conditions.

Employee wellness programs and health benefits that include taking action on such measures may not only help keep employees healthy, but hold rising costs in check.