CCSN’s Policy Briefs and Consultations

Policy briefs and consultations play a pivotal role in our mission to advance healthcare outcomes and advocate for the well-being of cancer patients and survivors. These documents serve as critical tools in our commitment to evidence-based policymaking. Through comprehensive research and engagement, we aim to address pressing issues and ensure that healthcare policies remain responsive to the evolving needs of those affected by cancer. Consultations provide a platform for valuable input from stakeholders, fostering collaboration and collective efforts to shape effective policies. We invite you to explore our policy briefs and engage in consultations to join us in our mission to make a meaningful impact on cancer care and survivor outcomes.


 

Prostate Cancer in the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community

The Canadian Cancer Survivor Network recognizes the critical need to address the disparities and challenges faced by the 2SLGBTQIA+ community concerning prostate cancer. This brief examines the impact of prostate cancer on the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, with a focus on transgender women and gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM). Prostate cancer affects not only cisgender men but also transgender and nonbinary individuals, yet research on their experiences is lacking. Transgender women on hormone therapy have a reduced likelihood of prostate cancer, but misconceptions and inadequate support persist. MSM face healthcare disparities, hesitancy in seeking care, and worse outcomes. To address these challenges, the brief recommends inclusivity in research, gender-affirming care, specific guidelines for transgender women, targeted interventions for MSM, and sensitivity training for healthcare providers.

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Consultation on the Proposed Amendments to the Formaldehyde Emissions from Composite Wood Regulations to the Public Health Agency of Canada

The Canadian Cancer Survivor Network is in favour of the Proposed Amendments to the Formaldehyde Emissions from Composite Wood Regulations and the directive concerning testing for formaldehyde emissions. We commend the Government of Canada for taking essential steps to address formaldehyde emissions from composite wood products. As a public interest group concerned with public health and the prevention of cancer, we firmly believe that stronger regulations in this area are essential to safeguard the prevention of cancer as well as the public who buy furniture made from composite wood or Canadians who have had it in their homes for years.

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Enhancing Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines

The Canadian Cancer Survivor Network recognizes the critical significance of evidence-based policy in advancing the well-being of cancer survivors and improving healthcare outcomes. This brief addresses the current breast cancer screening guidelines in Canada, aiming to ensure they remain responsive to the evolving needs of those impacted by the disease. Findings stemming from extensive research spanning numerous decades undeniably indicate that women who undergo regular mammograms are more likely to detect breast cancer at an earlier stage. This translates to reduced necessity for intensive interventions such as mastectomies and chemotherapy, ultimately elevating the chances of successful treatment and recovery. By advocating for an extension of the screening age range, the adoption of personalized approaches, and the strengthening of public awareness initiatives, CCSN strives to mitigate the impact of late-stage diagnoses and propel survivor outcomes to new heights.

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A Flame of Change: Safeguarding Firefighters’ Health with Bill C-224

The Canadian Cancer Survivor Network understands the significant need to address and combat the risks and challenges posed by cancer associated with firefighting. Introduced to the Canadian House of Commons by MP Sherry Romanado, the bill seeks to establish a comprehensive framework to recognize and compensate occupational cancers in firefighters, standardize guidelines, allocate resources for prevention and treatment, and enhance safety measures. This brief emphasizes the urgent need to unify cancer recognition and compensation practices across different provinces, as disparities exist in current regulations. The recommendations in this brief encompass a spectrum of measures including stringent exposure limits, adoption of toxic use reduction policies, the creation of occupational cancer registries, comprehensive training programs, and research funding.

View the full policy brief