Assisted dying now accounts for one in 20 Canada deaths
www.bbc.com
For the first time, the annual report delved into race and ethnic data of those who underwent assisted dying.

Summary

Euthanasia accounted for 4.7% of deaths in Canada in 2023, with 15,300 people opting for assisted dying—a 16% increase, though slower than prior years.

Most recipients had terminal illnesses, primarily cancer, and 96% were white, sparking questions about disparities.

Quebec, at 37% of cases, remains Canada’s euthanasia hotspot.

Since legalizing assisted dying in 2016, Canada has expanded access, now covering chronic conditions and planning to include mental illnesses by 2027.

Critics, citing rapid growth and controversial cases, warn of insufficient safeguards, while proponents highlight strict eligibility criteria. Debate continues globally.

  • Buffalox@lemmy.world
    1071·
    10 days ago

    I’m surprised it’s that many, but it’s people who are allowed to die with dignity, and released from a life of pain.
    I hate we don’t have that right here in Denmark.

    • tootoughtoremember@lemmy.world
      401·
      10 days ago

      Not that surprising given how big our aging boomer demographic is. This was my father two years ago who had fought a year long battle with cancer before deciding to go with MAID. He was already hospitalized in palliative care and it may have only saved him a day or two more of suffering. In fact after how rough his final night was, I wish he had been able to let go a day earlier.

    • DeadWorldWalking@lemmy.world
      53·
      9 days ago

      While people should have the right to end their own lives, i feel like widespread use of euthanasia will degrade the standards of our medical care.

      • Routhinator@startrek.websiteEnglish
        31·
        9 days ago

        Overinflated stat due to a population bubble. Boomer generation population size outweighs gen x, millenials and gen z combined.

      • x00z@lemmy.worldEnglish
        22·
        9 days ago

        Even in a privatized hospital, like the US, euthanasia will always be cheaper than normal medical care. So even in capitalist countries I don’t see that being the case.