B.C. government to invest $440 million to improve detect, prevent & treat cancer

The British Columbia government is investing $440 million to better detect, prevent and treat cancer.

Premier David Eby says nearly everyone in the province has been affected by cancer in some way, through their own diagnosis or that of a family member or friend.

He says the 10-year plan will save lives and improve the quality of life of B.C. residents now and in the future.

The money will support research, technology and innovation, improve access to cancer care for rural and remote residents, add more cancer centres throughout the province and ensure B.C.is able to attract oncologists and other cancer-care professionals.

This strategy highlights 70 actions to recruit, train and retain health-care workers, while redesigning the system to foster workplace satisfaction and innovation.

The government says increased demand has led to a cancer-care system that is ``stretched'' and can be difficult for patients to use.