Bill C-297

1st Session, 39th Parliament,

55 Elizabeth II, 2006

house of commons of canada

BILL C-297

An Act to designate the month of March as National Colorectal Cancer Month

WHEREAS every week over 377 Canadians are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and one in 14 men and one in 16 women will get this type of cancer in their lifetime;

WHEREAS over 162 Canadians die each week of this disease, because the diagnosis is usually made in the later stages, when a cure is less likely;

WHEREAS, when colorectal cancer is detected early and treated, the survival rate is as high as 90 per cent;

WHEREAS it is necessary to ensure timely access to the latest diagnostics and treatment;

WHEREAS it is necessary to promote prevention through healthy lifestyles, while promoting screening programs in order to raise awareness about the seriousness of this disease;

AND WHEREAS it is necessary to ensure that the Government of Canada proclaims the month of March as National Colorectal Cancer Month;

NOW, THEREFORE, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada, enacts as follows:

SHORT TITLE

1. This Act may be cited as the National Colorectal Cancer Month Act.

NATIONAL COLORECTAL CANCER MONTH

2. Throughout Canada, in each and every year, the month of March shall be known as “National Colorectal Cancer Month”.