Early detection lowering rates of cancer cases, deaths in Canada: study [Video]

Rates of cancer cases and deaths are projected to decline in Canada this year, largely thanks to prevention and early detection programs.

That’s according to a new study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal on Monday. But, researchers say there’s still more to be done to save and prolong lives.

According to this new study, more than 247,000 Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer this year, and a predicted 88,000 will die of the disease.

That rate is going down with more early detection, something cancer survivors say is vital.

Nancy McMillan is a survivor, after her battle with breast cancer 17 years ago.

“I had breast cancer, H-A-D, had breast cancer. I am now a graduate of the JCC breast cancer program. I am a thriver,” McMillan said.

It’s that diagnosis that pushed her to start the “Bright Run” in Hamilton to raise money for the Juravinski Cancer Centre, where she was treated.

The money also goes towards funding the “Pynk Program” which promotes early detection of breast cancer in younger people.

According to Juravinski’s website, around 10 per cent of their breast cancer patients are under the age of 40.

“There’s nothing more important than taking care of yourself, and that includes a regular screening regime. Not only here at the breast assessment centre, but also your self-exams,” McMillan said.

Later this year, the age for breast cancer screening in Ontario will lower from 50 to 40.

A new study published Monday in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests the rate of cancer cases and deaths in the country will decline in 2024, largely due to a push for prevention and enhanced screening programs.

“We know certainly that the earlier we catch breast cancer, the better the outcomes. The better, the less invasive the treatment,” CEO of Breast Cancer Canada Kimberly Carson said.

“So, if we can catch it earlier, we can screen it earlier. Those outcomes are really starting to show now.”

The CMAJ study suggests the rate of breast cancer diagnosis will remain stable in 2024, and mortality rates are expected to decrease.

Other types of cancer – namely lung, colorectal and prostate – are projected to decrease this year, but less common cancers – including melanoma, liver and kidney cancers – are on the rise.

Co-author of the study, Joana Nicolau, from the Canadian Cancer Society, says there has been a drop in mortality rates for lung cancer because of tobacco control regulations and smoking cessation programs.

While the rate of cancer diagnosis and death are down, the overall number of both are estimated to rise, with 247,000 new cancer cases and 88,000 cancer deaths expected.

“These increases are what we would expect because we have an aging and growing population,” Nicolau said.

The study also highlights the need for more research into cancers that don’t have routine screening methods, including liver and kidney cancers.

“I do not want my three granddaughters or my grandson to have to walk in my shoes, so anything we can do to support education, self knowledge and self care, let’s do it, because we don’t want that number to rise,” McMillan said.

Organizations say screening is very important to catching cancer early, but it’s equally important to fund research to learn more about the causes of cancer and risk factors, in order to prevent more cases.