Cases of cancer among Nova Scotians are on the rise and expected to jump up to 30% in 2020,say a new report from Cancer Care Nova Scotia, released on Tuesday, which looked at cancer statistics from 2000 to 2004.
Nathalie Saint-Jacques, Cancer Care Nova Scotia epidemiologist, said that the number is related to population aging and preparing a cancer support system sustainable to meet this demand would be a better option now.The report also highlighted the changes in the health care systems of the province with the growing population of survivors living with cancer.
The treatments, follow-up care, screening and disabilities of those patients would put heavy demands on the health care system. Health Minister Chris d'Entremont said it's going to be a challenge to meet the demand. The minister suggested that it would be better if the province finds a balance between the spending on prevention versus treatment.
It is reported that the Health Department is spending around $13.4 million in prevention of breast and cervical cancer through screening, $3.9 million on tobacco control and healthy eating strategies. Robert Strang, medical officer of health, agrees that prevention is key for sustaining the health care system.
Investing in prevention would save money in long-term and helps create better health for future generations – he added.
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