A new study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests cancer will remain a leading health challenge across the country in 2026.
Researchers project more than 254,000 new cases and nearly 88,000 deaths nationwide. Cancer is expected to remain the top cause of death in Canada, with lung, breast, prostate and colorectal cancers making up nearly half of diagnoses.
The report also highlights rising cases of cervical, head and neck, melanoma, pancreatic and uterine cancers. Experts say some of these are linked to human papillomavirus, while others are associated with increasing obesity rates.
Lung cancer is projected to remain the deadliest, accounting for about one in five cancer deaths. Cases among women are also increasing.
Despite the concerning trends, advances in treatments such as immunotherapy and targeted therapies are helping patients live longer.
Researchers say improving vaccination rates, screening and prevention efforts will be key to reducing future cancer risks.
