October 3, 2014
October is “Breast Cancer Awareness” month.
Breast cancer affects more women in Canada than any other type of cancer. In fact, more than 20,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and one in nine women is expected to develop breast cancer during her lifetime.
Reducing the burden of cancer is a priority for our government, which is why we renewed our investment of up to $241 million over five years in the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer.
It is also why, in 2012-13, through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, we invested over $166 million in cancer research, totalling $1.15 billion since 2006.
We collaborate with many partners, including the Canadian Cancer Society, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, the Canadian Breast Cancer Network, Rethink Breast Cancer and Willow Breast Cancer Support Canada.
Through our collective financial contributions, we support research into prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, supportive care, and palliative support.
Additionally, the importance of healthy living cannot be overstated. Adopting small changes—avoiding tobacco, eating healthier and increasing physical activity—can help decrease women’s risk of developing breast cancer. Screening and early detection are also key.
Our Government is proud of the measures we have taken to date and we will continue to support prevention and research efforts to help women stay healthy.
Sincerely,
Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health
