It is your health…own it

(BPT) – Having recently recognized National Cancer Survivor Month, when we celebrate the stories of the brave men and women who have fought and survived this unexpected and life-altering news of cancer diagnosis, it seems an appropriate time to discuss a key component of what might make more individuals diagnosed with cancer fall into the category of a survivor. First and foremost is early detection. Finding cancer in its early stages is one of the best and most cost-effective ways to improve one’s treatment options and overall survival rate. Wellness check-ups and health screenings aren’t just for older people. Everyone, including young people, can benefit from regularly seeing their doctor to discuss their health and have any recommended screenings or tests.Unfortunately, many people delayed or avoided health care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. However, data is showing a rebound in outpatient visits.1 That is the good news.So why is this important? Because regular wellness check-ups and screenings help to improve early detection of serious illness. Not only does early detection increase the patient’s odds for more treatment options, but it also can help reduce overall costs and lead to a better overall outcome. And this is something that we can all benefit from, regardless of age, demographic or background. According to a new Wellness Matters Study of 2,201 Americans conducted by Aflac:1 in 4 respondents say they have skipped a regular checkup because they feel healthy.1 in 2 admit to having skipped a common health screening.Yet at the same time, 51% of respondents diagnosed with cancer say they discovered it at a routine medical exam or a regularly scheduled screening, showcasing the value of having a policy that helps cover this type of medical visit.So what can we do? Well, first of all, we can take care of our own health and, second, we can encourage our friends and families to develop good habits. That same survey indicates that 35% of Americans are likely to go to a routine checkup if a friend or loved one encourages … or, in some cases, nags … them to go. Secondly, 85% said they are more likely to go if it meant receiving a cash incentive to do so. National Cancer Survivor Month put the focus on this issue. Now, let’s keep it going and make a difference. Let’s take control of our healthcare.For more information about the wellness matters survey visit aflac.com/WellnessMatters.1 Impact COVID-19 Outpatient Visits 2020: Visits Remained Stable | Commonwealth Fund2 Aflac (2023). Wellness Matters Survey. The 2023 Wellness Matters Survey was conducted among a nationally representative sample of 2,001 employed U.S. adults ages 18-65 in June 2023 by Kantar Profiles on behalf of Aflac. As part of the Hispanic population report, 200 Spanish-speaking respondents were added for a total of 580 respondents to ensure a robust understanding of this population. The additional 200 are not included in the general population report in order to maintain the nationally representative sample.Aflac’s family of insurers include American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus, American Family Life Assurance Company of New York, Continental American Insurance Company, and Tier One Insurance Company.Aflac | WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999Z2300669 EXP 6/24