Canada euthanasia now accounts for nearly one in 20 deaths - eviltoast
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.

  • 1985MustangCobra@lemmy.caEnglish
    11·
    10 days ago

    I think that there needs to be better mental health services, and that doesn’t just mean throw pills their way and be done. We need to help these people, and if they find that nothing else will stop them from wanting to move on, then let them do it peacefully, instead of the more gruesome methods

    • ramsorge@discuss.online
      71·
      10 days ago

      That’s nice to have as an option, but it shouldn’t be a requirement to go through therapy first. The problem is the world is shitty. If people don’t want other people pushing the power button, make the world not shitty. Let’s not always put the burden on the victim to simply learn to accept life.

      I think everyone has the right to say, “this is what I want from life. If I cannot have that, then I’m not interested in life.”

      • 1985MustangCobra@lemmy.caEnglish
        2·
        10 days ago

        Right, I was just trying to say we should have that option of support where therapy might be beneficial and avoid them passing away. I really don’t want someone to suffer in this world being alive, but If I was the person talking to them I’d like to offer helping them, and real help.

        • ramsorge@discuss.online
          12·
          10 days ago

          Well, that’s nice of you. But the world is a cruel place to a lot of people, and I think a good chunk of them would power off today if they could.