Media Advisory: Canadian Cancer Society available for comment as Health Ministers meet in Winnipeg to negotiate the Canada Health Transfer

What

Federal, provincial and territorial Health Ministers will meet in Winnipeg on October 15–16, 2026 to negotiate the future of the Canada Health Transfer (CHT).

The Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) will be available during and leading up to the meeting to provide expert comment on why upcoming CHT decisions must include dedicated cancer care funding to confront Canada’s rising cancer crisis.

When

Thursday, October 15 – Friday, October 16, 2026

Why

Cancer remains Canada’s leading cause of death, and the burden is growing. Cancer cases are projected to rise by 40% and cancer deaths by 44% between 2020 and 2040. In June, Canada and its G7 partners made a landmark commitment to strengthen access to quality cancer care for all.

CCS has called for a 1% dedicated increase to the CHT — approximately $575 million annually — to strengthen cancer prevention, screening, early detection, treatment, innovation and data systems across the country.

CCS spokespeople will be available for interviews throughout the negotiations to discuss:

• Why Canada must act now to confront the rising cancer burden
• How targeted CHT funding can save lives and reduce long‑term healthcare costs
• What governments can do to ensure equitable access to cancer care across Canada

Interviews available via phone, Zoom and in person (Ottawa, Toronto, Halifax, Montreal, Winnipeg)