Unum is a Fortune 500 company and one of the leading providers of Disability, Long-Term Care, Life, Voluntary, and Disability benefits. In 2010, the company reviewed its long-term disability claim data and found that cancer was the top cause of long-term disability claims during the previous decade.
Questions about cancer and the workplace have evolved as early detection and improved treatments have increased the chances that people can return to work after diagnosis.
Unum reported that cancer accounted for about 14% of its long-term disability claims over the ten-year span. Back injuries represented about 12% of claims and other injuries about 9%. A comparison of the company's 2001 and 2010 long-term disability claims showed higher return-to-work rates in 2010 for several common cancers; some specifics included:
Return-to-work rates by cancer type
- Breast cancer - 52% in 2010, 47% in 2001
- Prostate cancer - 30% in 2010, 28% in 2001
- Colon cancer - 30% in 2010, 23% in 2001
Many workers are motivated to return to work after a cancer diagnosis because work can provide structure and a sense of normalcy during recovery. For an overview of disability coverage and how benefits can help during an absence, see Understanding Disability Insurance Benefits.
Unum also noted that short-term disability return-to-work rates for breast cancer improved substantially, increasing from about 28.8% in 2001 to 60% in 2010. For more on short-term coverage options and how they differ from long-term policies, see Understanding Short-Term Disability Insurance.
Leading causes of short-term disability claims
- Pregnancy (22%)
- Injuries (9%)
- Digestive disorders (7%)
Frequently Asked Questions
How common is cancer as a cause of long-term disability?
According to Unum's review, cancer accounted for about 14% of long-term disability claims over the examined ten-year period.
Have return-to-work rates improved for cancer patients?
Yes; Unum's comparison of 2001 and 2010 data showed higher return-to-work rates for several cancers, including notable gains for breast cancer.
Why might someone want to return to work after a cancer diagnosis?
Returning to work can provide routine, social interaction, and a sense of control, which many people find helpful during recovery.