This research finds that breast cancer will likely cost the UK economy between £2.6-2.8 billion in 2024, and more alarmingly it reveals the true human cost – we estimate wellbeing costs associated with the disease will amount to a staggering £17.5 billion in 2024.

This report, supported by Breast Cancer Now, sets out how a number of critical interventions can mitigate the crippling human and financial impacts of breast cancer. Our economic modelling shows that higher levels of screening, more cancer nurse specialists and better help for people returning to work would deliver the highest impact.

At Demos we have long been making the case for a more preventative approach in healthcare delivery and this report demonstrates the value of such a model in relation to cancer care.