Transformational vision to save lives, improve lives and drive collective action.
VANCOUVER, BC -
Just ahead of World Cancer Day, the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) is launching a new 5-year strategic plan (2026-2031), reflecting an unwavering commitment to create a better future for people, families and communities affected by cancer.
Two in five Canadians are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime and cancer is the leading cause of death in Canada. Despite the tremendous progress that has been made, the challenge grows as Canada’s population ages and expands, and the environments people live in shape their health. Globally, we are entering an era of hope with unprecedented collaboration and transformational innovation in the cancer community. With this new plan, CCS has a sharp focus on what matters most – saving lives, improving lives and driving collective action against cancer.
“Cancer is deeply personal and touches so many of us. With our new plan, we are harnessing the determination of people affected by cancer, the advancements in science, medicine and technology that are unfolding before us and building on a legacy of progress in cancer research, advocacy and support. The Canadian Cancer Society is here to lead the way to a future without cancer,” says Andrea Seale, CEO of CCS.
Shaped by the voices and experiences of thousands of people - patients, caregivers, experts, supporters and partner organizations, CCS’s strategic plan reflects the greatest opportunities for impact and the real needs and courage of Canadians. Taking effect February 1, 2026, this ambitious and hopeful direction will guide CCS’s work for the next 5 years.
Focused action on increasing cancer survival, stopping cancer before it starts and improving the lives of people affected by cancer will help address the growing and aging population’s needs, ensuring that progress keeps pace with the increasing threat of cancer on Canadians and the healthcare system. To accomplish this, CCS will focus on several key priorities to drive change, leveraging its strength in research and clinical trial investment, public policy advocacy for changes to impact cancer at a population-level, and information and support programs to help at every stage of the cancer experience.
“The Canadian Cancer Society for over 8 decades has a legacy of saving and improving lives across Canada. By focusing on their commitment to impact against cancer, and uniting the right people to get the job done, they are rallying hope for the future,” says Dr Stephen Robbins, PhD Executive Director, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research at the Jewish General Hospital, Professor and Researcher.
Cancer is complex and the Canadian Cancer Society relies on a community of courageous and caring people across the country working together to make a difference. Redefining what cancer looks like across Canada is possible when everyone works together. Learn how you can get involved at www.cancer.ca/strategic-plan.
Boilerplate
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
For media inquiries, please contact:
Kate MacLean
Senior Communications Lead
Kate.MacLean@cancer.ca
Help create a future without cancer
With support from readers like you, we can continue to make a meaningful impact for people affected by cancer.
We are determined to increase survival, stop cancer before it starts, and improve lives. But we can’t do it without you.
If everyone reading this gave just $5, we could achieve our goal this month to fund the most promising research, compassionate support and transformative advocacy. Please give today because every contribution counts. Thank you.