Every September Canadians observe a number of cancer awareness initiatives related to childhood cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer and men's cancer health awareness. While each initiative focuses attention on a different form of the disease, they have a number of traits in common.
First, they remind us that cancer can affect anyone. It touches the lives of children and adults in every corner of our country. We all know someone who lives with cancer, has been successfully treated or has died from cancer.
Second, they show us how deeply committed people are to the prevention and management of the disease, whether it's through research, fundraising efforts or volunteer work. One example is the Terry Fox run that takes place every September in cities across the world. Since his death in 1981, the Terry Fox Foundation has raised more than $600 million to support cancer research and help people living with this disease.
Third, we learn that early detection has been proven to save lives. Our Government makes significant investments in initiatives that provide health care specialists with guidelines on cancer screening and recommendations. Federal funding also helps raise awareness among Canadians about cancer prevention and supports people living with the disease. Since 2006, we've also made annual contributions of $50 million in the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, which implements the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control.
Over the past 25 years there has been a steady decline in death rates from cancer in Canada. Screening programs and better treatment options have contributed to this positive change. Just as importantly, Canadians are becoming more aware that cancer can be prevented by maintaining a healthy lifestyle through physical activity, healthy eating and not smoking.
During the month of September, I encourage all Canadians to participate in the fight against cancer, whether it is by taking a step toward a healthier lifestyle, volunteering for a cancer cause or by donating to a charity of your choice.
Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health
