BREAST CANCER NEWS

Many of the more than 2 million U.S. women who have been treated for breast cancer and many of the 2,600 Connecticut women who are expected to be diagnosed with the disease this year assume that their diagnosis immediately makes them ineligible for insurance coverage, such as life insurance or disability income insurance, leaving them and their loved ones potentially exposed.

  In fact, due to the positive long-term survival benefits of early detection and new treatments, women can qualify for coverage, an important fact that they – and even women who have not been diagnosed with breast cancer -- should know in order to take steps now to protect themselves and their families from potential future unnecessary hardship.    

   Fact: Breast cancer incidence in women has increased from one in 20 in 1960 to one in eight today. Tip: Due to increased incidence and improved detection techniques, the chances are increasing that more women will be diagnosed with this disease some time in their lives, making better financial preparedness extremely important to both them and their loved ones.

   Fact: Since 1990, the death rate from breast cancer in women has decreased. Not only are women living longer after diagnosis of breast cancer, but also are leading active, productive lives. Tip: Because detection and treatment have improved, it’s more important than ever for women to consider disability income insurance to replace a portion of lost income due to absences from work related to treatment and recovery.

  Fact: Some insurance companies regularly review and update their underwriting guidelines due to advances in detection and treatment of breast cancer. Tip: Changes in eligibility mean breast cancer survivors may qualify for life insurance, and for many, it is less expensive than before. Make sure your insurance carrier’s underwriting guidelines are current.

  Fact: More than 40,000 women died in 2005 from breast cancer. While treatment improves and survivability increases, breast cancer is still the second-leading cause of cancer-related death in women. Tip: Life insurance is one important way that women can protect their family and loved ones from the impact of future unforeseen life events, such as premature death from breast cancer.

   Fact: Women carry only half the amount of life insurance coverage that men carry and are generally underinsured. Tip: It’s important for women to periodically review their financial plans to determine if they need insurance, what kinds they need, and how much they should purchase. Although breast cancer survivors can qualify for insurance coverage, the ideal time to apply is before any health complications occur.

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