Government data shows a continued surge in the utilization of euthanasia.
Data from Health Canada indicates that medically assisted death (MAID) accounted for a significant portion of deaths in Canada last year, reaching nearly 5%. In 2023, 15,343 individuals chose MAID, a 15.8% increase compared to 2022, though this represents a slower growth rate than in previous years.
Despite the decrease in the annual growth rate, the number of Canadians opting for MAID still shows a substantial double-digit rise. The report cautions against drawing definitive conclusions about the long-term trend.
The figures reveal that MAID comprised 4.7% of all deaths in 2023, up from 4.1% in 2022.
Over 95% of MAID cases involved individuals with terminal illnesses, with cancer being the most frequent reason cited. The average age of those seeking MAID was over 77.
Several factors may contribute to the rate of MAID provisions, including increased awareness, an aging population and associated health issues, personal beliefs, societal acceptance, and the availability of MAID providers, the report states.
Currently, MAID in Canada is restricted to individuals with physical health conditions. However, the government is considering extending eligibility to individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia before the most debilitating effects manifest.
A plan to extend MAID to those with mental illnesses was postponed until at least 2027 to allow healthcare services to adequately prepare. Concerns remain among medical professionals regarding their readiness to assess eligibility for MAID in cases of mental illness.
Health Minister Mark Holland acknowledged the government’s acceptance of the equivalency of mental and physical suffering but emphasized the importance of preparedness.
In 2021, Canada amended its MAID legislation, removing the requirement of a terminal illness. Since the introduction of MAID, the number of cases has significantly increased, rising from approximately 1,000 in 2016 to over 15,000 in 2023.
Several other countries, including Austria, Australia, and Spain, have recently implemented or are considering assisted dying laws. The UK recently passed legislation on this topic, though parliamentary approval is not yet final.