Marvin OnumonuYoung employees are facing a higher risk of cancer, but most remain unaware of preventable causes, according to Perci Health’s new Generation Risk report.
The research found fewer than one in four young adults link alcohol, poor diet, or inactivity to cancer risk.
Awareness was lowest among younger men, with only 31% of 16 to 24 year olds recognising smoking as a cancer risk.
15% of young adults believed there are no cancer risk factors at all.
NHS data showed more than 30% of screening appointments are missed, while HPV vaccination rates are falling.
Up to 83% of cancer patients were found to be exposed to misinformation online.
These factors have led to later diagnoses, poorer outcomes, and added anxiety.
Kelly McCabe, co-founder and CEO of Perci Health, said: “The results are both surprising and alarming.
“Cancer risk is rising among younger people, yet too few people understand how their everyday choices affect their risk.
“On top of that, misinformation about cancer is everywhere, leaving many confused or anxious about what’s true.”
McCabe added: “Combating misinformation and improving health literacy, through access to clinical experts and engaging, evidence-based content, must be the foundation of every early detection and cancer support strategy.
“Employers, brokers, and insurers have an important role to play here.
“By helping to close awareness gaps now, we can protect both people and productivity.”
The report also found 35% of women aged 25 to 44 missed cervical screening, often due to confusion about eligibility.
Two-thirds of employees said they wanted cancer education included in workplace wellbeing programmes.
Over half felt employers have a responsibility to provide it, and six in 10 said they would be more likely to take part in prevention initiatives if delivered at work.
