Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is very hard for me to express my concerns regarding the issue of cancer in the Northwest Territories. Just recently I lost my mother to breast cancer. The irony of her death is that she died upon the day that was declared by the city of Yellowknife to be Breast Cancer Awareness Day. The incidence rate of breast cancer in Canada is the second highest in the world. In 1996 it was estimated that 18,500 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed. Deaths from breast cancer in 1996 were estimated to be 5,300 people. In Canada, a woman dies of breast cancer every 90 minutes, 15 women die from breast cancer every day. If it is detected very early, the five-year survival rate can be more than 90 percent.
For the families and victims, the legacy of this disease will affect them for the rest of their lives. I would like to take the opportunity to thank all the people who expressed their concerns and provided assistance to my mother and the family during her illness. For other families that are facing the loss of a loved one due to cancer, there is an information line available in all official languages. Callers can speak to specially trained medical translators and interpreters who will answer your questions. The number to call is 1-888-261-HOPE (4673). Information in English or French is available by phoning 1-888-939-3333.
Cancer is an unwelcome, but unique part of our lives. We can limit the number of victims through early detection and effective treatment. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.