Men are putting their health at risk because they fear a diagnosis could harm their job security, career prospects or reputation at work, according to new research from Bupa.
Although over half of men (56%) say they would feel comfortable telling their manager about cancer-related tests or a diagnosis, many still worry about what an illness or health problem could mean for their working lives.
Almost one in five (18%) fear they’ll be treated differently or pitied, while the same proportion are concerned about job security or being viewed as unreliable. A further 15% are anxious about becoming the subject of office gossip, and 12% worry about being handed less important work or overlooked for future opportunities.
Bupa’s research found that workplace culture and rigid working patterns are stopping men from booking vital medical appointments in the first place. Securing time away from work is a key barrier, particularly for younger employees: nearly one in five men aged 25–34 (19%) struggle to get short-notice time off, while a fifth of millennials (21%) say their appointments almost always fall within working hours – compared with just 6% of baby boomers. Faced with these pressures, many admit it feels easier to delay seeking help than risk being seen as less committed to their job.
These workplace concerns persist even after tests are booked. Almost a third of men (30%) fear that a diagnosis could put their job at risk or lead to them being judged as unreliable. Younger workers feel this most acutely – one in five millennials (20%) worry about missing out on future opportunities or promotions if illness affects their availability.
Bupa’s research also highlights a clear lack of awareness and clarity around workplace support. One in five (20%) men are unsure whether their employer has any support in place for those with serious health conditions, rising to 28% among Gen X employees (aged 45-60). When asked what would make the biggest difference, men prioritised practical measures that build trust, including flexible hours for tests or treatment (28%), paid time off for medical appointments (27%) and clear confidentiality assurances (20%) when disclosing a health issue.
Dr Tim Woodman, Medical Director for Cancer Services at Bupa said: “Our research is a clear warning that career anxiety is becoming a growing barrier to men accessing vital care. When people worry that a diagnosis could affect their job or future opportunities, it’s understandable they may hesitate to speak up or seek help as early as they should, but when it comes to serious health issues such as cancer, acting on concerns early and starting treatment promptly is crucial and can be lifesaving.
“Employers can make a meaningful difference here. Simple steps – like offering time off for health appointments, being flexible around tests and treatment, and giving clear reassurance about confidentiality – can help create an environment where people feel safe to be open about their health. When that trust is in place, it protects both the wellbeing of the workforce and the long-term strength of the organisation.”
To help managers feel confident supporting employees who are worried about being tested for, or are living with cancer or any other health concerns, Dr Tim Woodman has provided some simple tips to help start the conversation:
- Listen
Let your employee lead the conversation, listen carefully and acknowledge how they are feeling rather than trying to “fix” things or rush in with solutions
- Be accommodating
Ask what would help them most at work right now – whether that is flexibility around hours, adjusting tasks, or simply knowing who they can contact if things change
- Be consistent
Keep their confidence, agree how and when to stay in touch, and remember that their needs may shift at different stages of tests, treatment and recovery. Be a manager and a peer, go for a coffee or a walk and let them know support is available.