Breast cancer was the most common cancer claimed among women, whereas prostate cancer was the most common cancer claimed by men, according to Vitality.
The provider revealed that claims for breast cancer made up 49 per cent of claims across all ages for women, and was the most common among those over 30, followed by skin cancer at 21 per cent, and bowel cancer at 6 per cent.
But for women under the age of 29, the most common cancer was for skin, making up 26 per cent of claims followed by lymphoma at 18 per cent.
The most common cancers affecting men were prostate at 28 per cent and skin at 28 per cent. Prostate cancer was particularly high for the over 60s and made up 75 per cent of their cancer claims. But for men under 30, the most common cancers were haematological at 25 per cent, skin at 23 per cent and lymphoma at 21 per cent.
Meanwhile, Vitality also revealed data following the introduction of its cancer support programme back in 2022 which showed that members enrolled between 2023 and 2024, saw a 30 per cent higher activity level measured through step count, as well as a 32 per cent reduction in levels of stress and anxiety and a 12 per cent improvement in quality of life.
Vitality Health managing director Keith Klintworth says: “Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be absolutely devastating, but having the right kind of clinical treatment and care in place is invaluable but as too is taking a holistic view following diagnosis, to ensure the person has the right physical and mental health support in place for them.
“We know that the benefits of physical activity for our mind and body are important, and we consistently see how strong the evidence is around the positive impact of engaging in healthy habits. The data we have released today highlights how important leading an active and healthy life is for people with cancer.”
