A recent survey found that for many Canadians, cancer not only places a significant burden on families, but also imposes additional costs and an unbearable financial burden.
According to the survey conducted by Angus Reid on behalf of the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS), 30% of people would need to take on debt to pay for cancer-related expenses. According to a systematic literature review by the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, this cost was $290 per month in 2023.
Therefore, a cancer diagnosis can have a significant impact on household finances, with the majority of people saying this stress can affect their mental health (65%).
“The additional costs associated with a cancer diagnosis come at a time when all other stressors are high. Cancer takes its toll emotionally, physically and psychosocially. Adding financial weight to a diagnosis is unacceptable,” said Stuart Edmonds, Ph.D., senior vice president, Mission, Research and Public Advocacy at CCS.
To make ends meet in such a situation, some even go so far as to ask their loved ones for help (10%).
The situation is very precarious for Valérie Moreau, who was diagnosed with breast cancer last October. As a self-employed and single mother, she has had no income since November and has to pay $600 a month for expenses related to her illness.
“Beyond the emotional shock, physical distress and all the uncertainty surrounding the diagnosis, there are financial implications that I never expected. Post-surgery costs, transportation costs, on top of regular daily expenses, all while I no longer have a job. People do not realize the magnitude of the costs caused by this situation,” she said, according to an SCC press release.
In particular, to support families in such a situation, the SCC recommends establishing a national drug insurance program and expanding the accessibility of the caregiver tax credit.
“It takes a society to reduce the cost of cancer treatment. “That’s why we’re asking the public to join us in calling on all governments in Canada to make cancer treatment more affordable for people who need it,” emphasized Mr. Edmonds.