An increased focus on cancer prevention is also asked of the next potential provincial leader
The Saskatchewan Branch of the Canadian Cancer Society has decided to commemorate World Cancer Day with a new campaign. The organization has launched a powerful online campaign urging the province to make the issue of palliative care -or lack thereof- a subject of debate in the next election.
Currently only three palliative care practitioners reside in the province; for the density of the province's population it is a paltry sum and the doctors are often overworked and under-supported.
The Society has sent an inclusive questionnaire to all political contenders to fill out and provide insight as to how their parties plan to accommodate the lack of resources in this area. Upon completion, the results of the questionnaire will be posted on the Society's website for public perusal.
A recent Society report has found most Canadians are unable to access adequate palliative care when moments are most crucial. Canada faces 40% increase in the number of new cancer cases in the next 15 years.
The debate on physician-assisted dying and the upcoming federal legislation have brought the issue of palliative care in a new light. The Society hopes its efforts eventually see the successful installation of at least three palliative care practitioners per province, and a regular review of provincial standards in order to meet the demands of the aging yet growing population.
To read more on the campaign, visit their website at : www.cancer.ca
Tue, Apr 23, 7:00 PM
