Montréal, March 2, 2026
The Quebec Cancer Foundation is reaching a decisive milestone in cancer prevention. It is becoming the first community-based oncology organization to formalize an official alliance with Santé Québec to amplify a national colorectal cancer screening campaign during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
This collaboration marks a turning point within Québec’s healthcare network. It demonstrates that by combining the strength of the public system with the mobilization capacity of the community sector, it is possible to go further, faster — and save more lives.
Each year in Québec, nearly 7,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer and approximately 2,550 die from the disease. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among people aged 50 to 74. Yet when detected early, colorectal cancer can be treated effectively.
Unifying Leadership in Service of Prevention
By initiating this partnership, the Quebec Cancer Foundation reaffirms its role as a key partner and driver of innovation in oncology. Historically committed to supporting people living with cancer and their loved ones through its assistance services, the Foundation is now also acting upstream — preventing, mobilizing, and raising awareness.
“Too often, colorectal cancer is diagnosed at a late stage because it causes no symptoms in its early phases. The more people we reach, the greater the chances of detecting the disease when it can be treated effectively. This strategic alliance goes far beyond a simple partnership: it redefines how public and community stakeholders can work together to transform prevention in Québec.” said Marco Décelles, General Manager of the Quebec Cancer Foundation.
A Simple Test. A Concrete Action. A Real Impact.
Since 2024, a free screening program has been available at local service points across the province. It is intended for individuals aged 50 to 74, with or without a family physician. Individuals aged 49 and under with a family history of colorectal cancer are also eligible.
The test is simple, quick, and can be completed at home in just a few minutes. It detects the presence of blood in the stool that is invisible to the naked eye — often one of the earliest signs of the disease. Eligible individuals can book an appointment online through the Clic Santé platform or by phone at 1-877-644-4545.
A Wide-Reaching Campaign
(Available in French only)
Rolled out across multiple channels to maximize reach, the campaign will include:
- A toolkit for healthcare institutions and community pharmacies: web banners, digital displays, and an awareness brochure.
- Paid advertising and organic content distributed across social media platforms.
By combining the Foundation’s on-the-ground expertise with the reach of the public network, this initiative pursues a clear objective: to significantly increase participation in the colorectal cancer screening program.
A Landmark Collaboration
“This unprecedented partnership reflects a shared commitment to going further, together. It embodies a modern model of action: breaking down silos, building bridges between the community sector and the public system, and placing prevention at the heart of public health priorities,” said Jennifer-Kim Noël, Director of Communications and Public Relations at the Quebec Cancer Foundation.