Health Reports
A Canadian peer-reviewed journal of population health and health services research
May 2026
Geographic variation in female breast cancer incidence and mortality in Canada
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among females in Canada, with 30,500 females estimated to be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024 and 5,500 females dying of breast cancer in that same year. While breast cancer incidence and mortality have decreased over the last decade, national-level estimates mask underlying variability, including variability by age, socioeconomic characteristics, and geography.
Full article PDF versionEnhancing the OncoSim-Breast model using Canadian breast density information
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death among women in Canada. Population-based mammography screening plays a crucial role in detecting breast cancer at earlier, more treatable stages and remains the only screening approach with mortality reduction benefits demonstrated in randomized controlled trials. Despite advancements in screening mammography technology, research indicates that its effectiveness varies across patient characteristics, with breast density being one of the most significant factors affecting breast cancer risk and screening accuracy. Women with higher breast density face an increased risk of developing breast cancer while also experiencing reduced sensitivity in mammography screening.
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