Average cancer patient faces $33,000 lifetime expense: Canadian Cancer Society

A Canadian Cancer Society report revealed that the average patient endures nearly $33,000 in out-of-pocket expenses and lost income during their treatment and recovery journey.

The financial strain extends beyond direct medical costs, encompassing prescription drugs, homecare, travel expenses, and accommodation. For many Canadians, this amount represents years of savings that could have been allocated toward major life goals like homeownership or retirement.

Natalie Lipschultz, who faced stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2019, recalled that after losing her job and benefits during treatment, she estimates her diagnosis has cost approximately $20,000 over six years.

"I needed my benefits because I was paying for cancer drugs myself. It was very scary," Natalie shared.

"My husband was going back to school at the time, so there was just lots and lots of financial strain to afford our bills. Thankfully, we had some extended family that helped us out, but I know not everybody has that." 

Dr. Jennifer Gillis, Director of Surveillance at the Canadian Cancer Society, said in a press release: "Cancer comes with an incredibly high price tag - it's unacceptable to know that such a significant portion of costs fall on people with cancer and their families."

Lower-income households and rural community residents bearing a heavier burden. The total societal cost of cancer is projected to reach $37.7 billion in 2024, with patients and caregivers shouldering 20% of these expenses.

"We live in a country with universal healthcare, yet people with cancer are still footing a big bill," said Dr. Stuart Edmonds, EVP, Mission, Research and Advocacy, Canadian Cancer Society.

"Solving the issue is complex. This is a systemic, societal issue that can't be resolved in isolation. But we know there are choices that governments of all levels can make to reduce the out-of-pocket costs weighing so heavily on people in Canada."