March 6, 2015
Colorectal cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Canada. Approximately one in thirteen Canadian men and one in sixteen Canadian women will be diagnosed with this disease in their lifetime. Individuals can live with colorectal cancer long before they experience any physical symptoms. Both early detection and treatment are key to increasing survival rates.
That's why Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month encourages a national dialogue about this disease while aiming to empower Canadians aged 50 to 70 years to talk to their doctor about getting screened.
Though early detection can help decrease your risk of developing colorectal cancer it is equally important for Canadians to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle. This includes regular exercise, making healthy food choices, managing stress levels as well as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
While each life that has been lost to colorectal cancer is one too many, I am pleased that rates have been on the decline since 2000. This can be attributed to our cancer partners who work tirelessly to combat this disease. In Canada, we have some of the world's best cancer researchers, not-for-profit groups, treatments, and screening programs.
For our part, the Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership to reduce the burden of cancer on Canadians. Since 2006, we have invested approximately $50 million each year to support the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer that has helped to improve colorectal cancer screening rates across Canada by establishing the National Colorectal Cancer Screening Network. The government also continues to support the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care which provides guidance to health care practitioners.
Research also plays an important role in the Government's efforts. Between 2006 and 2013 the Canadian Institutes of Health Research invested $34.8 million in research on colorectal cancer.
As the Minister of Health, I would like to take this opportunity to help raise awareness about colon cancer and prevention efforts. During Colorectal Cancer Awareness month I encourage all Canadians to learn more about prevention and testing, as well as services and programs in their community.
Canadians can also show their support by participating in Dress in Blue day today or any day throughout the month. This national day of celebration invites Canadians to learn about the signs and symptoms of this disease and the importance of screening. Take part and help spread the word that colorectal cancer is "Preventable, Treatable and Beatable."
The Honourable Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health
