Message from the Minister of Health: National Cancer Survivors Day - June 5th, 2016
Statement
On June 5th, 2016, I encourage you to take time to honour the courageous Canadians in your life who are living with, or have previously battled, cancer. National Cancer Survivors Day is an opportunity for families, communities and cancer survivors to join together and celebrate life after a cancer diagnosis. It is also a time to remember those who lost their fight against cancer.
More than half of Canadians with cancer are expected to survive for five years or longer after diagnosis. In fact, over the past 15 years, the 5-year survival rates have increased by nearly ten per cent for all cancers combined.
While these statistics demonstrate progress and give many Canadians hope and inspiration, we must also recognize that those who have survived cancer may continue to struggle with depression, emotional stress, and other health issues. After completing treatment, family, friends, colleagues and medical professionals still have an important role to play in supporting survivors as they transition back to daily life.
To augment this effort, the Government of Canada is supporting cancer patients, survivors and their families through a five-year investment of up to $241 million in the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer. Through this investment, we are supporting cancer prevention and management initiatives across Canada with the goals of increasing early diagnosis, reducing the number of deaths from cancer, and improving the quality of life for Canadians living with cancer.
National Cancer Survivors Day reminds us that life after a cancer diagnosis can still be brilliant, fulfilling and very worthwhile. Living with or overcoming cancer takes tremendous strength, courage and perseverance.
I am inspired by the many stories shared with me by cancer survivors over the years. To all Canadians living with cancer and to those who have survived, I wish you and your families all the best in your journey to recovery, and good health and prosperity in the future.
The Honourable Jane Philpott, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Health
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