As we look to continue funding the most promising cancer research, advocate for health-protecting policies and provide trusted information, it is crucial that reliable surveillance information remains available, so we can identify where more resources are needed.
Working in collaboration with Statistics Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada, a new study outlines the 2024 projected estimates of cancer in Canada. These new findings, such as an expected rise in new cancer cases since last year, suggests that the Canadian Cancer Society’s national support system remains as important as ever.
Find out what the key takeaways reveal and what programs we have in place if you have been impacted by cancer.
1. An estimated 247,100 people in Canada are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2024, with 88,100 deaths
In 2024, 247,100 Canadians are estimated to hear the words “you have cancer,” compared to the 239,100 new cancer cases in 2023 — an increase that is likely the result of Canada’s growing and aging population. Cancer deaths are also expected to rise this year, from 86,700 in 2023 to 88,100 in 2024. The increase in cancer cases and deaths are expected due to the growing and aging population.
As we continue to provide programs like Wheels of Hope, information specialists and educational resources for those at risk of cancer and their caregivers, we want to ensure them of our commitment to guide them on their journeys while funding new groundbreaking cancer research initiatives.
2. Lung cancer will remain the leading cause of cancer
In 2024, it is projected that 32,100 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer in Canada. Lung cancer is expected to remain the most common cause of cancer death, accounting for 23.5% of all cancer deaths.
We expect to see an increase in lung cancer among females in 2024, with an expected increase from 15,800 cases in 2023 to 17,300 cases in 2024. This suggests that measures to reduce tobacco consumption among women remain ever important. Investing in early detection and treatments as well as advocating to government for increased tobacco controls also remain a priority.
We hope all of our continued efforts will assist other priority populations where smoking continues to be high, such as lower income families, people living in rural communities and First Nation populations.
And if you are looking to start your journey into quitting smoking, our free Smoker’s Helpline and Smoke Free Curious are available for anyone who needs support or assistance in creating a personalized plan to help quit.
3. More early detection measures are needed to reduce the high death rate among individuals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer is expected be the third leading cause of cancer deaths, despite it being the 11th commonly diagnosed cancer. Since the 1990’s, death rates for other cancers have steadily declined, like lung cancer and hematologic cancers.
However, because pancreatic cancer is located deep in the abdomen, more than 60% of cases are diagnosed at a late stage. With no early screening tests available and limited progress in developing new early detection and treatment measures, more research and clinical trials will need to be invested in.
Through our new funding opportunity, the CCS Breakthrough Team Grants: Transforming Low Survival Cancers, we hope to bring together the sharpest minds across Canada with scientific and clinical expertise, to improve the lives of people impacted by pancreatic, esophagus, brain, lung, liver and stomach cancer.
4. Cancer cases will continue to be the highest in eastern Canada
Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia are expected to have the highest cancer death rates in 2024, whereas western regions, British Columbia and Alberta, are expected to have the lowest.
To give further assistance to the rural and aging populations of eastern Canada, we are committed to enhancing and sustaining programs unique to the region through our Atlantic Campaign. Our growing network of researchers whose work is funded through the Atlantic Campaign includes Dr Rodney Ouellette, the scientific director of the Atlantic Cancer Research Institute. He is hopeful his research into the effects of immunotherapy drugs on lung cancer tumours can lead to even more personalized treatments. We look forward to more advancements and discoveries by our Atlantic researchers in the year to come!
The Lodge That Gives in Halifax and Daffodil Place in St. John’s also remain open for anyone in need of a home away from home when they are receiving treatment. And regardless of where you are in Canada, please visit CancerConnection.ca, if you need any additional emotional support.
5. Breast cancer is expected to be the most common cancer diagnosed among women
In 2024, 30,500 people are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer — accounting for 1 in 4 new cases in females.
Since the mid-1980’s, the breast cancer death rate has declined by 47%, likely due to organized screening programs and improvements in treatment. However, there is still more work to be done.
Breast cancer is projected to be the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women, with 5,500 cancer deaths expected in 2024. Through the CIBC Run For the Cure, we will continue rallying our passionate communities to help us shape health policies and fund new expansions to our national support system.
6. Prostate cancer is expected to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men
Prostate cancer is projected to represent 1 in 5 new cases of cancer among males, with an expected 27,900 new cases being diagnosed in 2024.
Since its’ peak in 1995, prostate cancer deaths rates have fortunately declined by 50%, in large part due to investments in research and life-saving treatments. We are incredibly grateful Plaid for Dad has funded groundbreaking research since 2015 and we will continue to provide funding for new treatment options for advanced prostate cancer.
If you think you are at risk of prostate cancer, you can use our resources to find which test is right for you.
