Aviva Research Highlights Workplace Communication Gap Around Cancer Symptoms and Diagnosis Among UK Employees

Aviva Research Highlights Workplace Communication Gap Around Cancer Symptoms and Diagnosis Among UK Employees

(IN BRIEF) Aviva’s research reveals that while most people are willing to talk about potential cancer symptoms with those close to them, a significant communication gap remains in the workplace. Only a small percentage of employees feel comfortable discussing possible symptoms with their employer, although this increases after diagnosis. Concerns about job security, workplace perception, and privacy continue to act as barriers to open communication. The findings also highlight the emotional burden associated with discussing cancer, with many individuals worried about managing others’ reactions. Despite this, there is strong support for openness, with most people wanting to be informed about a diagnosis affecting those around them. The study underscores the importance of creating supportive environments, particularly within workplaces, to encourage early conversations and improve access to support.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 20-Mar-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Aviva has published new research highlighting how attitudes toward discussing potential cancer symptoms are becoming more open among the public, while also revealing a significant gap when it comes to communication within the workplace.

The study, based on responses from 2,000 UK adults, shows that 79% of people would speak to someone if they experienced a symptom that might be linked to cancer. Conversations are most likely to take place with close personal contacts, with partners being the most common point of support, followed by healthcare professionals and close friends.

While some individuals would share concerns immediately, around one in five said they would raise the issue as soon as they noticed symptoms, whereas others would wait until they had consulted a doctor or received confirmation of a diagnosis before speaking to others. The findings also suggest that willingness to discuss health concerns is broadly consistent across genders.

However, the research indicates a clear difference in openness when it comes to professional environments. Only a small proportion of employees said they would feel comfortable discussing a possible cancer symptom with their employer. This level of comfort increases significantly following a confirmed diagnosis, with a majority indicating they would then inform their employer, although a notable minority would still feel unable to do so.

Concerns about how such information might affect employment remain a major barrier. Employees cited fears related to job security, being treated differently by managers or colleagues, and being perceived as less capable. Additional worries include loss of privacy, pressure to return to work prematurely, and potential negative effects on career progression.

The findings also highlight the broader emotional challenges associated with discussing cancer. Many respondents expressed concern about managing the reactions of others, with more than half feeling a sense of responsibility for how people around them might respond. For some, this emotional burden is significant enough to discourage them from raising concerns at all. Others prefer to deal with the situation privately or feel uncertain about how to begin such conversations.

Despite these reservations, there is a strong desire for openness when it comes to others. Most respondents said they would want to be informed if a close friend, family member, or colleague had been diagnosed with cancer, indicating a clear expectation of transparency in personal and professional relationships.

When considering the type of support people would value following a diagnosis, respondents emphasised the importance of being treated as normally as possible, alongside open communication, practical assistance, and ongoing emotional support. Many also highlighted the need for flexibility and understanding, allowing individuals to manage their situation at their own pace.

The findings point to an opportunity for employers to play a more active role in supporting employees by fostering an environment where health-related discussions can take place openly and without fear. Creating supportive workplace cultures, providing clear guidance, and encouraging early conversations can help individuals access the assistance they need and reduce the likelihood of facing challenges in isolation.

Notes to editors:

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Media Contact:

Amber Scott
Protection and Health, Regulation
Phone: +44 (0) 7384 230 662
Email: amber.scott@aviva.com

SOURCE: Aviva