Mr. Speaker, ovarian cancer is the most fatal women's cancer in Canada. It is estimated that this year 2,800 women will be diagnosed and 1,750 will die from the disease, that is five mothers, daughters, and sisters who we will lose each and every day this coming year.
There is no screening test, the symptoms are easily confused with less serious conditions, and the result is that ovarian cancer is usually detected at a very late stage. These facts are troubling because most Canadians are unaware of the risks that this cancer poses.
Ovarian Cancer Canada has launched a campaign to make Canadians more aware of ovarian cancer. There is also an immediate need for research dollars. This is why I am calling upon the federal government to invest in research to ensure women fighting this disease have the tools they need to beat it.
Please join me in increasing awareness by joining the fight on May 8 for World Ovarian Cancer Day.