Cigna Healthcare, the leading global
healthcare services company, has launched an initiative to get people talking more openly about
diseases and treatment, with the aim of boosting early diagnosis and promoting healthier
lifestyle choices.
A new monthly online thought-leadership series, ‘Let’s Talk About…?’, will facilitate discussions
on health issues that individuals often find challenging to address with loved ones or healthcare
professionals. The series, hosted by Cigna Healthcare’s clinical team and experts, aims to
empower individuals by confronting fears of diagnosis, treatment, and judgment, encourages
proactive health management, and provides accurate information about chronic conditions
including cancer, fertility, women's health, weight, obesity, and various non-communicable
diseases.
;At Cigna Healthcare, we are deeply committed to the well-being of the communities we serve.
This initiative aligns with our goal of improving the health and vitality of the people across the
region.; said Jerome Droesch, CEO of Domestic Health and Health Services, International
Health, Cigna Healthcare.
“We intend to increase awareness, remove barriers and empower individuals to make informed
decisions about their health, ultimately fostering healthier and more supportive communities.;
By focusing on early clinical intervention, treatment options, and their importance, Cigna
Healthcare aims to combat the prevalence of diseases like diabetes. The series will also
address the impact of physical health issues on mental well-being, addressing depression,
anxiety, and isolation that can arise.
It is widely acknowledged that people are living longer but experiencing poorer health. Globally,
non-communicable diseases such as cancer and heart disease claim the lives of 41 million
individuals each year, and shockingly, 17 million of them die before the age of 70 due to
preventable lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, harmful alcohol
consumption, and unhealthy diets. Statistics indicate that one in two individuals will develop
cancer at some point in their lives.
According to the International Diabetes Federation, the proportion of people aged 20-79 who
have diabetes has remained relatively static across the GCC over the last 10 years: 18.7% in
Saudi Arabia, 16.4% in the UAE, and 19.5% in Qatar. In comparison, just 10.7% of the USA’s
population lives with diabetes.
Dr. Stella George, Chief Medical Officer, International Health at Cigna Healthcare, emphasized
the criticality of early awareness and consultation in preventing and treating diseases like
cancer and heart disease. Dr. George also highlighted the significance of early diagnosis,
emphasizing that every month of delayed cancer treatment leads to a 10 percent increase in
mortality rate. By promoting symptom awareness and regular medical check-ups, this series
holds immense potential for significantly reducing these numbers, she said.
Developed by Cigna Healthcare's clinical team, who act as lead authors, the series will explore
different facets of various health issues, encompassing prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and
recovery. Cigna Healthcare acknowledges the interconnected nature of health issues and their
influence on family dynamics, finances, social interactions, and work-life balance. This personal
approach ensures that the content remains relatable and trustworthy, fostering a strong
connection with the audience.
