Cancer

There are many different types of cancers. All of them are characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in some part of the body.

An estimated 153,100 new cases of cancer and 70,400 deaths from cancer will occur in Canada in 2006. The most frequently diagnosed cancer will continue to be breast cancer for women and prostate cancer for men. The leading cause of cancer death for both sexes continues to be lung cancer.

Reduce your risk:

Eat better
Be more active
Protect yourself from the sun
Don't smoke
Avoid second-hand smoke
Tell your doctor when your health changes
Screen for cancer
Handle hazardous materials carefully

Health Canada, in partnership with the Public Health Agency of Canada, continues to monitor this disease, identifying the trends and the risk factors, developing programs to reduce cancer risks, and undertaking research to evaluate risks from the environment and behaviours.

Risk Factors

There are many known risk factors for cancer:

Tobacco Use is the cause of almost 30 per cent of all fatal cancers in Canada and a major cause of lung cancer, one of the most preventable cancers.
Poor Diet - one with a high proportion of dietary fat - causes about 20 per cent of fatal cancers. Colon and prostate cancers are associated with diets high in fat.
Other Risks include workplace hazards, family history, alcohol use, reproductive factors, sexual activity, sunlight, drugs, and ionizing radiation.

Learn more about quitting smoking, eating healthy and sun protection.