Ministerial Message from the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

This content was archived on June 24, 2013.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March 2011

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Last year, more than 22,000 Canadians were diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

While colorectal cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in Canada, it may also be preventable. Prevention starts with healthy living and with getting regular physical check-ups--even when you feel fine.

Here is what you can do to keep your colon healthy:

• Eat well: A diet high in green, leafy vegetables and fresh fruits is rich in nutrients and provides antioxidants, which may help your body fight cancer. Choose breads, cereals, and pastas made from whole grains such as oats, barley, and whole wheat, and avoid the trans- and saturated fats found in many snack foods, butter, and red meats.
• Be active: Physical activity is important for the health, well-being, and quality of life of Canadians, and helps to prevent many chronic diseases like cancer. Make regular physical activity a part of your healthy lifestyle: check out the Get active tip sheets for information on how to be more active.
• Don't smoke.
• Cut down on alcohol.
• Talk to your doctor -- have a 'colonversation'--about colorectal cancer screening, particularly if you are 50 years or older.

The Government of Canada has invested $260 million over five years in the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control. The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer is implementing this strategy to ensure that the latest evidence and best practices are used across the country to improve prevention programs, early detection techniques, and treatments for all cancers. As a result, the strategy is helping to reduce the number of cancer diagnoses and deaths, and improve the quality of life of those living with cancer. Candians are encouraged to learn more about colorectal cancer prevention by visiting Cancer View Canada.

We are also supporting research into more effective prevention and treatments through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, which invested more than $9 million in colorectal cancer research last year.

In addition, the efforts of such organizations as the Canadian Cancer Society and the Colorectal Cancer Association of Canada are helping to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, as well as the benefits of healthy eating, regular exercise, screening, and timely treatment.

During the month of March, I encourage all Canadians to learn more about all forms of cancer and how they can prevent the development of this disease.

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada