Canadian Cancer Society calls for dedicated cancer care funding to confront Canada's rising cancer crisis

A 1% increase to the Canada Health Transfer – dedicated to cancer prevention, early detection and innovation – would help Canada meet its stated G7 goals and the growing cancer burden

OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 21, 2026 /CNW/ -- As Health Ministers prepare to discuss the future of the Canada Health Transfer, the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) is calling on federal, provincial and territorial governments to establish dedicated funding for cancer care equal to a 1% annual increase to the Canada Health Transfer – approximately $575 million per year. This targeted investment would help prevent more cancers, find cancer earlier, improve treatment and bolster innovation across the country.

With cancer cases rising sharply and progress stalling in key areas of prevention and early detection, CCS warns that Canada is not prepared for the surge in cancer cases expected over the next decade. The total cost of cancer to society is already $37.7 billion and rising.

"Canada is facing a cancer crisis and we need to invest in our healthcare now to build a system strong enough to meet the rising demand for cancer care," says Andrea Seale, CEO of the Canadian Cancer Society. "Without decisive action, delays in diagnosis will worsen, screening gaps will deepen and inequities will grow."

CCS's calls come just weeks after Canada and its G7 partners made a landmark commitment to strengthen access to quality cancer care for all. Dedicated cancer funding will enable Canada to fulfill its recent G7 commitment to "strengthen access to quality cancer care for all" and move to build Canada Strong.  It would also allow provinces and territories to shift toward a national standard of cancer prevention and care.

Cancer remains Canada's leading cause of death and the number of cancer deaths is projected to increase by 44% between 2020 and 2040. At the same time, concerning trends are emerging: colorectal cancer rates in younger people are now 2 to 2.5 times higher than previous generations and cervical cancer rates have plateaued after years of decline. These pressures are unfolding during a period of economic uncertainty and a shift to multipolarity – making strategic, high-impact investments even more essential.

Investing today will save money – and lives – tomorrow

A dedicated 1% annual increase to the Canada Health Transfer of roughly $575 million per year would give provinces and territories the capacity to modernize health data, accelerate innovation across the cancer system, and strengthen prevention, screening, early detection, diagnosis, treatment and supports in every region. This investment represents a small fraction of what cancer already costs the healthcare system and Canadians each year, yet would deliver significant long-term impact.

"Investing in cancer care today will shape outcomes for decades," says Seale. "It's an investment that doesn't just saves lives, it saves money. It's one of the smartest economic decisions Canada can make."

Canada's healthcare system is not just a public service, it is one of the country's largest economic engines, supporting jobs, innovation, productivity, research and economic activity in every corner of the country. Public healthcare accounts for approximately 8% of Canada's GDP, more than 10% of total employment and supports nearly 2 million workers. 

Cancer costs taxpayers billions in healthcare expenses, lost productivity, reduced competitiveness and workforce disruption. In 2024, the cost of cancer in Canada was projected to be $37.7 billion and was expected to rise by 23% over the next decade. Investing in cancer prevention, screening and timely care is both good health policy and sound economic policy that strengthens Canada's workforce and long-term prosperity.

From diagnosis at a young age to recovery

Cancer is real. It affects real people. Jason Abramovitch was just 36 when he was diagnosed with stage 3B colorectal cancer in 2020. After surgery and six months of chemotherapy, he and his wife adopted their daughter while navigating the emotional, physical and financial toll of treatment.

Nearly two years later, new nodules were found on his lung. Thanks to timely access to specialists, a second opinion and innovative radiation therapy treatment, Jason avoided major surgery and has returned to routine surveillance.

"Cancer has taken so much from me and my family, but it has also pushed me to grow, learn and give back," Jason says. "It took my confidence and trust in my body, but it also showed me the strength of community and the importance of making sure no one faces cancer alone."

Jason is part of a growing trend of younger Canadians facing cancers once considered rare at his age. His experience reflects the reality facing many younger Canadians: rising cancer rates, complex care needs and the importance of early detection and access to innovation.

Jason says he is ready to see a cancer care system that better meets the needs of Canadians -- especially younger adults who are being diagnosed more often and at more advanced stages. He is also passionate about seeing a better cancer care system that will meet the needs of future generations.

"Being a father of a young daughter with autism, it is very important for the health system to step up so we can be confident that our children will be cared for should they ever need it."

New Ipsos polling data conducted for the Canadian Cancer Society reveals that more than 8 in 10 Canadians (84%) support dedicated funding for cancer care, even if it requires higher taxes.

Canada has the tools, knowledge and collective will to confront our cancer crisis. With the right investments in our healthcare system, and by working together, we can build a future where fewer people hear the words "you have cancer."

Join the Canadian Cancer Society as we lead the way to a future without cancer. Visit cancer.ca/voicesforchange and be part of the change.

About the Canadian Cancer Society

The Canadian Cancer Society works tirelessly to save lives, improve lives and drive collective action against cancer. Together with patients, volunteers, donors and communities across the country, we raise funds to invest in transformative cancer research, we provide a caring support system for everyone affected by cancer and we advocate to governments to create a healthier future for all. It takes a society to take on cancer – and the Canadian Cancer Society is leading the way. Help us make a difference. Call 1-888-939-3333 or visit cancer.ca today.

SOURCE Canadian Cancer Society (National Office)

For more information, please contact: Nuala McKee, Senior Manager, Mission Communications, Canadian Cancer Society, 416 219-7281, [email protected]