Third of cancer patients lose over £10k in earnings: Guardian

"Cancer premium" of nearly £700 each month for young people's diagnosis

Jaskeet Briah
clock • 4 min read

New research has found that nearly one third (31%) of cancer patients and their families lost £10,000 or more in income and earnings as they needed to make changes to their work schedule following a cancer diagnosis.

The research, sponsored by Guardian and conducted by cancer charity, Young Lives vs Cancer, comprised a survey and follow-up interviews of 259 participants. This included parents or caregivers of children and young people under 27, as well as adults aged 18-26 who have undergone cancer treatment and care within the past two years. Overall, 70% of respondents experienced a loss in income and earnings due to having to take time off or away from work or needing to change employment arrangements because of treatment, with the average loss of earnings hitting over £6,000 a year. Some respo...

To continue reading this article...

Join COVER for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, key trend analysis and industry insights.
  • Stay on top of the latest developments around health and wellbeing, diversity and inclusion and the cost of living crisis.
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletter.
  • Members only access to monthly programme 'The COVER Review'
  • Be the first to hear about our CPD accredited events and awards programmes.

Join now

 

Already a Cover member?

Login

More on Individual Protection

Fifth of adults without a long-term financial plan

Fifth of adults without a long-term financial plan

Scottish Friendly research

Jaskeet Briah
clock 11 August 2026 • 2 min read
Government to launch up to 159 NHS mental health centres

Government to launch up to 159 NHS mental health centres

The Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) has announced the launch of up to 159 new NHS mental health facilities across England.

Jaskeet Briah
clock 07 August 2026 • 2 min read
Protection APE up across the board: Gen Re

Protection APE up across the board: Gen Re

Protection pulse Q1 update

Cameron Roberts
clock 06 August 2026 • 1 min read