Quebec’s SHOCKING 7.2% Euthanasia Rate – World’s Highest!

A deceased body on a table with a tag on the foot, and a medical professional in the background

Canada’s euthanasia rate surpasses 5%, raising concerns about societal values and patient autonomy.

Story Highlights

MAID now accounts for 5.1% of all deaths in Canada, surpassing the 5% threshold.
Quebec has the highest euthanasia rate globally at 7.2%.
Since 2016, over 76,000 Canadians have opted for euthanasia.
Debate continues over the influence of social factors on MAID choices.

Canada’s Rising Euthanasia Rates

Health Canada’s latest report reveals that Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) accounted for 5.1% of all deaths in Canada in 2024, a symbolic milestone indicating its normalization in healthcare. This represents a significant increase since its legalization in 2016. The legislation aimed to provide end-of-life options for those with intolerable suffering, but concerns about decision-making safeguards remain.

The integration of MAID into Canada’s public healthcare system has been rapid, with Quebec leading with a 7.2% euthanasia rate, the highest globally. Despite the rise, the data suggests the growth rate is stabilizing, indicating a potential plateau in utilization.

Provincial Variations and Key Concerns

British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec account for 85% of MAID cases, reflecting provincial policy and healthcare infrastructure differences. The debate over MAID’s expansion continues, particularly regarding its psychological and social influences. Nearly half of Track 2 cases—those not near death—cite feeling like a burden, highlighting the need for robust support systems.

Critics argue that the rapid expansion is a policy-driven phenomenon rather than genuine demand, with some advocating for more stringent safeguards. The concentration of MAID cases among a limited number of practitioners further raises questions about consistency in decision-making.

Impact on Society and Healthcare

MAID’s normalization poses significant ethical, social, and economic implications. While it offers a cost-effective alternative to prolonged care, it also challenges societal responsibilities to provide comprehensive mental health and palliative care. Politically, MAID remains divisive, with autonomy and protection at the core of the debate.

As Canada continues to navigate these complex issues, the role of social factors in MAID decisions and the adequacy of current safeguards will likely dominate future policy discussions.