The Costly Battle Against Cancer in Canada

In Canada, cancer is not just a medical challenge but a financial ordeal, with patients facing an overwhelming average lifetime cost of nearly $33,000. This staggering figure often catches many families off guard, according to cancer researcher Sevtap Savas from Memorial University.

A Family Affair: More Than Just Medical Treatment

"Cancer is actually a family affair," Savas emphasizes, highlighting that financial, emotional, and logistical burdens extend well beyond the treatment phase. As part of the Atlantic Cancer Consortium Patient Advisory Committee, she is pushing for better awareness and promotion of support resources tailored to both patients and their caregivers.

The Hidden Needs of Patients and Caregivers

Despite the availability of essential services like peer support, many families remain uninformed about their options. Savas insists that the Newfoundland and Labrador government must take a more proactive stance in raising awareness and expanding access to these vital resources, especially for those grappling with substantial treatment-related costs.

The Financial Reality: Costs Not Covered by Public Healthcare

The Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) reveals that the average cancer patient incurs significant out-of-pocket expenses for things like prescription drugs, hospital parking, childcare, and even travel—most of which are not covered by Canada's universal healthcare system. The burden grows heavier when varying drug coverages across provinces come into play.

Emotional and Financial Burdens Intensified

"Treatment is just one part of [the] cancer journey," Savas points out, noting that the related financial stress only adds to the emotional strain families face. The reality is stark: many patients must make decisions that deeply impact their financial stability due to gaps in healthcare coverage.

Public Concerns: Financial Security at Risk

A survey by the CCS and Angus Reid Institute reveals that nearly 80% of Canadians aged 18 to 64 are anxious about how a cancer diagnosis could derail their retirement savings. Alarmingly, almost half express frequent concerns over their long-term financial security, even without a cancer diagnosis.

A Call to Action: Improving Affordability and Accessibility of Care

Savas and fellow advocates argue for a two-fold solution that prioritizes both affordability and accessibility in cancer care. "We need affordable cancer care drugs," she insists, urging collaboration between provincial and federal governments to level the playing field.

The Challenge for Employers: Rising Health Costs

According to the Business Group on Health's latest survey, cancer has now overtaken musculoskeletal conditions as the leading driver of health benefit costs for large employers. A staggering 91% of employers are increasingly concerned about prohibitive pharmacy costs and the financial burden of new drugs entering the market.

Precision Medicine: A Potential Game Changer

Savas advocates for a shift towards precision medicine, which can tailor cancer treatments to individual needs, potentially improving outcomes and cutting unnecessary costs. This approach focuses on preventing diseases and treating them more effectively.

Employers Response: Mental Health Support Initiatives

With financial pressures mounting, some employers are stepping in to alleviate burdens by offering virtual counseling and mental health services, a response to the growing mental health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic.

Daily Struggles: The Impact of Out-of-Pocket Costs

According to the CCS survey, 23% of cancer patients struggle to cover daily expenses due to out-of-pocket costs, with 21% unable to meet household necessities. Alarmingly, 40% experience diminished capacity to save for retirement as a direct consequence of these financial pressures.

A Universal Healthcare System with Hidden Costs

As CCS Executive Vice President Stuart Edmonds poignantly states, "We live in a country with universal healthcare, yet people with cancer are still footing a big bill," underscoring the urgent need for change in the system to truly support those affected by cancer.