Message from the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

World Cancer Day

February 4, 2012

February 4 is World Cancer Day:  a day when people from around the world have an opportunity to remember those who have lost their battles with cancer or have been affected by the disease. The good news is, over 28 million people worldwide are cancer survivors.

During their lifetimes, 45% of men and 40% of women in Canada will develop cancer. Many of these cancers can be prevented or controlled if diagnosed early. Researchers report that a very low percentage of all cancer cases are linked to genetic factors, while a high percentage have their roots in the environment and in our lifestyles. The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), responsible for creating World Cancer Day, estimates that about a third of cancer cases can be prevented through healthy diets and exercise.

Since we know that adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent cancer, why not consider making the following changes:

• eat healthier foods,
• increase your physical activity levels
• maintain a healthy weight
• avoid smoking and second-hand tobacco smoke, and
• have regular check-ups.

In fall 2011, Canada participated in a United Nations Summit on chronic disease, where we signed a  Political Declaration on the prevention and control of chronic diseases, including cancer. When I spoke at this Summit, I emphasized that prevention is the foundation for our work to combat chronic disease and cancer, both domestically and internationally.

This year, for the first time, Canada will host the largest international cancer-control conference in the world.  The World Cancer Congress, to be held in Montreal from August 27 to 30, will highlight international efforts in cancer prevention and control.

On February 4, I encourage all Canadians to think about how our everyday choices can contribute to not only cancer prevention, but also to overall health and well-being.

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada