Normally in my blog, I like to focus on the positive things being done in the fight against cancer. I like to talk about prevention initiatives to stop cancer in the first place. I like to talk about research into better treatments that we hope will go on to help people in the (not so distant) future.

But no matter how positive the message, it is impossible to forget — nor do we want to forget — that cancer is the leading cause of death in Canada.

Unfortunately, death and dying haven’t been erased from many people’s cancer experience. While 62% of cancer patients become cancer survivors (or better, thrivors), that still means 38% don’t beat this disease. And with Canada’s aging population, the numbers of people dying from cancer will increase. It’s an unrelenting reality.

Living with advanced cancer not only means managing physical symptoms like pain and nausea but also addressing emotional needs such as depression and anxiety. It can also take a great financial and psychological toll on caregivers.

End-of-life care in Canada — how it’s delivered, when and where — are all huge questions that need to be explored. Our 2010 Canadian Cancer Statistics delves into these questions and I’ll blog some specifics later this month.

Please, if you or someone you know is dealing with an advanced cancer diagnosis or is taking care of a friend or loved one in this situation and needs support, contact our Cancer Information Service.