This cancer drug is saving lives. It's also threatening to break Canadian health-care budgets
- Posted on September 13, 2026
- By The Toronto Star
- 34 Views
- 1 min read
In brief
Canada's healthcare system faces mounting financial pressure as immunotherapy drug Keytruda consumption reached nearly $800 million annually in 2023. While this breakthrough cancer treatment demonstrates significant efficacy in extending patient survival rates, its prohibitive cost threatens the sustainability of provincial health budgets across the nation. Investigative reporting reveals the complex tension between providing access to life-saving medications and maintaining fiscal responsibility within Canada's public healthcare framework.
Summary auto-generated by AI from the original publisher's content. Editorial standards.
This cancer drug is saving lives. It's also threatening to break Canadian health-care budgets
Canada spent nearly $800 million in 2023 on Keytruda. A joint investigation reveals how its steep price strains public healthcare budgets.
