Canada’s leading cause of death is cancer. The rate of cancer diagnoses and deaths in Canada is estimated at 2 in 5 over a lifetime. 46% of all cancer diagnoses in 2021 will be lung, breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers. Despite being a highly preventable cancer, melanomas continue to rise, while thyroid cancers are decreasing. As of 2021, lung cancer is expected to be the leading cause of cancer death (25%), followed by colorectal cancer (11%), and pancreatic cancer (7%). The current five-year survival rate for all cancers is estimated at 64%.

It is estimated that in 2023, 28,600 Canadian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. This represents 25% of all new cancer cases in women in 2022. 5,500 Canadian women will die from breast cancer. This represents 14% of all cancer deaths in women in 2022.

In 2023, our gala was dedicated to supporting women’s health, specifically raising awareness for breast cancer. Proceeds from the event were donated to the Odette Cancer Centre at Sunnybrook Hospital. Your contribution has already made a difference for the 1 in 8 Canadian women who may face a breast cancer diagnosis, funding crucial support programs and groundbreaking research initiatives.

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing rapidly across the globe, with an estimated 463 million adults living with it. It is estimated that the number will reach 700 million by 2045. Globally, diabetes affects every corner of the world.

1 in 3 Canadians are living with diabetes or prediabetes. Young Canadians have 50% chance of developing diabetes in their remaining lifetime. Diabetes Canada is most trusted provider of diabetes education, research, resources, and services. They have helped millions of Canadians affected by diabetes since 1953.

MELC members are dedicated to empower the charitable organizations who work to fight against Diabetes.