Skin cancer claims have soared over the last five years to almost level with breast cancer as the largest source of cancer claims on private medical insurance (PMI), VitalityHealth has revealed.
Data from the insurer showed more than a quarter of cancer claims it received in 2024 were for breast cancer (25.5%) which was closely followed by skin cancer (24.8%).
Prostate cancer was the third most common accounting for 13.6% of claims.
The insurer did not share how many cancer claims it received under all its health insurance plans in 2024, when asked by Health & Protection.
However, data submitted for Health & Protection’s Individual PMI Reports showed it received between 900 and 1,000 claims from individuals in 2021, 2022 and 2023.
Notably, the insurer highlighted that while claims rates for breast and prostate cancer have decreased by 9% and 7% respectively between 2019 and 2024, skin cancer claims rates per 1,000 lives have increased by nearly 25%.
For women, the most common cancer claimed last year was breast cancer, totalling 47%, followed by skin cancer with 22%.
For men prostate cancer (29%) and skin cancer (27%) were most common though prostate cancer claims were only made by those aged 40 and up.
Deciding factor
A survey by the insurer of 1,000 adults with private healthcare indicated the significance of cancer cover for customers.
Overall, 77% of private health insurance customers said they had concerns around waiting times for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
This was apparent across all age groups, with the 77% of 18–34-year-olds expressing concern mirrored by 78% of those aged 55+.
VitalityHealth CEO Arun Thiyagarajan (pictured) noted a cancer diagnosis can be absolutely devastating, but having the right kind of clinical treatment and care was invaluable and most likely why it remains a top priority for those seeking to purchase PMI.
“It’s really encouraging to see a reduction in the claims rates of breast cancer and bowel cancer among Vitality health insurance members between 2019 and 2024,” he said.
“While the rise in skin cancer claims rates during this same period is concerning – especially as it reflects national data showing a similar upward trend – it’s important to remember skin cancer remains one of the most treatable forms of cancer.
“By embedding timely screening within a well-guided care journey, we can help ensure it is identified early and managed effectively.”