An analysis of Liberty’s 2024 Claim Statistics has revealed a compelling trend: South African women are more proactive than men in undergoing early cancer screening, leading to earlier diagnoses and improved recovery outcomes.
According to the insurer’s annual claims report, cancer accounted for 37.2% of all claims made by women, compared to 27.9% for men. These figures are drawn from Liberty’s Lifestyle Protector product, which paid out R7.35 billion to 28,889 clients and their beneficiaries in 2024 Cancer continues to feature prominently in claims across the board, yet a notable difference lies in the timing of detection between genders.
Liberty’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Reinhardt Erasmus, explains that while women may appear more affected by cancer on the surface, the disparity is largely due to behavioural differences in screening and health management.
“What we’re seeing is not necessarily a higher incidence of cancer in women, but rather a greater tendency among women to get tested earlier and more frequently than men,” says Dr Erasmus. “This has led to a higher volume of early-stage cancer claims among women, particularly for breast cancer, which is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in females.”
Most breast cancer claims at Liberty occur during Stage I, reflecting the benefits of early detection. In contrast, men tend to present prostate cancer at later stages, often due to lower screening rates and delayed diagnoses.
This trend mirrors global findings. According to the World Health Organization, early detection significantly increases survival rates across all cancers. For example, five-year survival rates for breast cancer exceed 90% when diagnosed at Stage I, compared to just 27% at Stage IV. Yet, global studies continue to show that men are less likely to seek medical attention or attend routine screenings unless symptoms are severe.
“Women are making health a priority, and it’s paying off,” says Dr Erasmus. “Early intervention enables better treatment options, faster recovery, and improved quality of life. It also helps reduce the financial and emotional strain that a late-stage diagnosis can bring.”
In response to these patterns, Liberty has developed early cancer detection benefits as part of its Lifestyle Protector offering. This type of cover provides financial support at the point of early diagnosis, helping clients manage the costs associated with treatment, recovery, and lifestyle adjustments.
“Insurance today is less about asking ‘what if I die?’ and more about ‘what if I live?’” Dr Erasmus adds. “With the evolution of medical treatment and the growing role of preventative care, the value of being insured against life-changing illnesses such as cancer cannot be overstated.”
As cancer continues to be one of the leading causes of death globally according to the World Health Organisation, the data underscores the critical role of regular screening, particularly for those who may not yet show symptoms. The takeaway is clear: early action saves lives, and more women are taking that step.
DID YOU KNOW?
Liberty is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Standard Bank Group and is currently one of the largest providers of long-term insurance solutions to South Africa’s retail affluent market.
With a strong and relevant brand of more than 60 years, Liberty offers an extensive, market-leading range of products and services to help clients build and protect their wealth and lifestyle.
This is enabled by Liberty’s 3,000-strong tied distribution force that expertly equips customers with knowledge to make financial decisions that add value throughout their various life stages.
Liberty’s incorporation into Standard Bank provides synergies and advantages not only in South Africa but across the African continent, positioning Liberty as an integral part of a universal financial services organisation focused on delivering exceptional customer experiences and superior value. Liberty Group Ltd is a licensed life insurer and an authorised financial services provider.
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