During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the focus is mainly on the health impact of a diagnosis. But a first diagnosis of breast cancer, or any cancer, can bring unexpected financial challenges for a family.
The NIH National Cancer Institute estimates that about 2.1 million new cancer cases will be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2026. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women.
Cancer Can Affect More Than Your Health
Cancer treatment can bring costs that go beyond medical bills. You may need time away from work for appointments, treatment, or recovery. Yet your mortgage or rent, groceries, car payment, childcare, and other everyday expenses still need to be paid.
The American Cancer Society notes that cancer can affect both income and household expenses. Costs may include transportation, parking, lodging and other expenses related to getting care.
A family history of cancer can also be a reason to think about financial protection. For example, the ACS states having a family history of breast cancer can increase a person’s risk. Having a first-degree relative, such as a mother, sister, or daughter, with breast cancer is one known risk factor.
That does not mean you will develop cancer, but knowing your family history can help you have informed conversations with your doctor. Then you can also think about how your family would handle unexpected costs.
Protection Beyond Life Insurance
We know that life insurance helps protect the people you love if you are no longer there to provide for them, but what about unexpected health challenges while you are living?
Kemper Life First Occurrence Cancer Insurance may provide an added layer of financial protection. It provides a lumpsum benefit after a covered first occurrence of cancer that can help with expenses related to a cancer diagnosis and everyday bills.
That money may give you more flexibility to help manage costs while you focus on treatment and recovery.
Added Protection for the Life You’re Living
Cancer is not the only unexpected event that can affect a family’s budget. An accident or heart attack can also bring new expenses or time away from work.
In addition to First Occurrence Cancer coverage, Kemper Life offers two additional types of Added Protection Insurance designed to provide financial support after certain covered events:
Accident Insurance can help with unexpected costs related to a covered accidental injury or death and First Occurrence Heart Attack Insurance provides a lumpsum benefit after a covered first heart attack.
Life does not always go as planned. Having additional protection in place may help you handle unexpected expenses while continuing to live the life you’ve worked hard to build.
Talk with a Kemper Life agent about your family’s needs and whether Added Protection Insurance may be right for you.
Supporting the Fight Against Cancer
The Kemper Foundation is proud to support the American Cancer Society and its work to advance cancer research and provide support for people and families facing cancer.
Accident and Health insurance provided by: The Reliable Life Insurance Company, United Insurance Company of America, Union National Life Insurance Company, Mutual Savings Life Insurance Company in the states where each company is licensed and offering coverage. Each company has sole financial responsibility for its own products. Home Office: Chesterfield, Missouri. All insurance products are subject to state availability, issue limitations and contractual terms and conditions. Optional: Please contact your agent or nearest district office for more information.