A Canadian government report reveals that euthanasia deaths have steadily risen since the Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) law was enacted in 2016, with over 60,000 cases to date.

In 2023, euthanasia accounted for 4.7% of all deaths (15,343 cases), though the growth rate is slowing.

Most recipients were elderly (median age 77) with terminal illnesses like cancer, while 4% had chronic conditions without imminent death.

Ethnicity data shows 96% of cases involved white individuals, despite whites being 70% of the population.

The majority of cases occurred in Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia.

MAID eligibility expanded in 2021 to include chronic conditions, the International Business Times has reported.

Globally, euthanasia laws exist in countries like Australia, Spain, and the Netherlands, with the U.K. considering similar legislation.

Written by B.C. Begley