Youth cancer claims surge across 82% of APAC insurers

Breast and colorectal cancers are the leading types driving claims across the region.

Cancer is now the fastest-growing condition for insurers in Asia-Pacific (APAC), with more than half (52%) of insurers saying it has the highest rise in incidence over the past 18 months, according to WTW’s 2026 Global Medical Trends Report.

Insurers pointed to breast cancer, colorectal cancer and lung cancer as the most common types driving claims in the region.

WTW said cancer is also driving higher insurance use and costs across APAC. Around 82% of insurers reported an increase in cancer cases amongst people under 40. 

This trend is adding pressure to health and employee benefit plans, as younger patients tend to stay in treatment for longer and may need extended coverage and support.

The report noted that Asia accounts for about 49% of global cancer cases, with more than 9.8 million people diagnosed each year. 

In Singapore alone, cancer is the leading cause of death, accounting 26.2% of deaths recorded as of the latest available data.

Meanwhile, 65% of employees reported anxiety about returning to the office after a cancer diagnosis.

Simultaneously, nine in 10 Singaporeans said returning to work supports their recovery, reinforcing the importance of the role workplaces play in survivorship and rehabilitation. 

For insurers, this means cancer remains a major source of claims volume and cost, especially in employer-sponsored health plans. 

“Cancer is no longer an issue that sits outside the workplace. It can affect employees at every stage of their careers,” Eva Liu, Head of Strategic Development, Asia Pacific, Health & Benefits, WTW, said in a press release.

WTW added that insurers see early screening, prevention and workplace wellbeing programmes as key tools to help manage future claims and medical costs linked to cancer.

Many individuals in the region experienced profound mental and emotional challenges, including fear, anxiety, sadness, anger and isolation. 

In Asia, over half (54%) of people with advanced cancer report high levels of anxiety or depression, whilst stigma remains a persistent concern. 

Employees may also worry about job security, performance, income loss and disclosure at work, compounding emotional distress during an already difficult period. 

“Across APAC, 30% to 60% of cancer survivors attempt to return to work within 12 months, yet many face persistent fatigue, pain, anxiety and fears around disclosure or discrimination. A structured, supportive return-to-work approach can help employees rebuild confidence whilst enabling organisations to retain valuable skills and experience,” said Pheona Chua, Associate Director, Corporate Health & Wellbeing, Asia Pacific, WTW.  

“Returning to work can be a powerful part of recovery, but only if it is handled with care. Emotional readiness check, phased reintegration, manager check-ins and long-term emotional support are critical to helping employees feel safe, valued and capable as they rebuild their working lives,”