Publicis Groupe has announced the latest advancement in its Working With Cancer (WWC) initiative, reinforcing its mission to foster open, supportive and recovery-forward workplace cultures for employees living with cancer. The announcement follows new research from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the Mayo Clinic, highlighting a strong link between continued employment and improved recovery outcomes.

Since its launch at the World Economic Forum in Davos three years ago, Working With Cancer has grown into a global movement comprising more than 5,000 companies, collectively supporting over 40 million workers worldwide. What began as a shared employer commitment is now backed by robust clinical evidence underscoring the role workplaces can play in improving quality of life for cancer patients.

A review led by Dr Victoria Blinder of Memorial Sloan Kettering and Dr Gina Mazza of the Mayo Clinic found that employed cancer survivors reported significantly better long-term outcomes. Data showed higher overall quality of life and physical functioning among employed survivors, along with markedly lower levels of depression and anxiety, compared to those who were unemployed. The findings emphasize the importance of workplace flexibility, understanding and appropriate accommodations during treatment and recovery.

Inspired by this research, Working With Cancer has introduced an AI-powered coach to help organizations translate insights into personalized support for employees with cancer. Available to all pledge-signing companies, the tool enables tailored guidance based on individual needs, while maintaining strict privacy safeguards and clear boundaries that prevent medical diagnosis.

Alongside the launch, WWC has unveiled a global awareness campaign urging more employers to sign the pledge. Supported by up to $100 million in pro bono media and created by Publicis Conseil, the campaign underscores the vital role employers can play in dignity, recovery and long-term wellbeing for people living with cancer.