Cancer Systems in Canada

Provincial and territorial cancer programs and agencies

In Canada, the organization and delivery of cancer control and care services happen through the healthcare systems of its provinces and territories. This means that every province and territory in Canada has its own cancer care agency or program.

Cancer agencies and programs are structured slightly differently from one jurisdiction to another: some report directly to their Minister of Health while others are accountable to their local health authority.

The work of cancer agencies and programs includes both strategic planning and operational activities and includes the oversight and coordination of cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and research.

The Canadian Association of Provincial Cancer Agencies (CAPCA) brings together the leadership of each provincial cancer agency or program to work together on shared priorities.

Federally-funded organizations

As steward of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control, the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) works with provincial and territorial ministries of health and their cancer programs, First Nations, Inuit and Métis governments and organizations, health system leaders and experts, and people affected by cancer across Canada to implement the Strategy to improve cancer outcomes for all people in Canada.

CPAC works closely with CAPCA and its membership, as well as other territorial cancer agencies and programs.

Patient organizations

The Canadian Cancer Society is a national charitable organization that engages patients, supporters, donors, and volunteers to fund cancer research, provide support, advocate for policy change, and offer cancer information to the Canadian public.