2024-11-12 07:00:00
In September 2024, the National Cancer Institute (INCa) published the 2024 edition of the cancer overview. Each year, this document provides the latest epidemiological data on cancers in France. Overview.
An overall increase in cancers in France
Cancers, along with cardiovascular diseases, have been the most common causes of mortality in France for several years now. The number of new cases of cancer also increases from year to year, although the incidence of certain cancers tends to decrease, for example colorectal cancer in men or cervical cancer in women. All cancers combined, this overall increase in the number of cancer cases is explained by several phenomena:
An unfavorable development of lifestylesin particular the increase in overweight and obesity but also in alcohol and tobacco consumption;The aging of the population ;The impact of environmental factors and more particularly air pollution.
The cancer overview specifies the most common and deadliest cancers in women and men. It then details the data cancer by cancer:
The latest trends in diagnosis and survival.
Risk factors or contributing factors;
Average age at diagnosis;
Also read – Everything you need to know about colorectal cancer screening
Prevention and screening, two key weapons in the fight against cancer
If diagnostic and therapeutic advances in recent years have made it possible to improve the survival and quality of life of many patients affected by cancer, prevention undoubtedly remains the best way to fight cancer. According to specialists, a large number of cancers could be avoided thanks to:
Vaccinationfor example against hepatitis B to prevent liver cancer or vaccination against HPV infections to prevent various cancers including cervical cancer, but also anal cancer (link: or cancer of the penis;Lifestyle changesbetter diet, sufficient physical activity, less sedentary lifestyle, less alcohol and stopping smoking;Reducing exposure to environmental pollutants.
Another major means of control is cancer screening. Although not all cancers can be screened, three and soon four cancers are subject to organized screening in France:
Lung cancer screening should be the next screening organized in France and will be based on a low-dose scanner in patients at risk. Cervical cancer screening thanks to the HPV-HR test and cervical smear in all women between 25 and 65 years old; Breast cancerthanks to a mammogram every 2 years in women aged 50 to 74; Le cancer colorectalthanks to a stool analysis, in women and men between 50 and 74 years old; Read also – Twice as many cases of prostate cancer in 2040?
Figures on pediatric cancers
Following the “golden September” operation dedicated to pediatric cancers, the cancer overview also provides some detailed figures on childhood cancers. Cancers very different from those of adults. In children, the most common cancers are:
And each year, there are 1,817 new cases in France over the period 2014-2020. A very low figure compared to the number of new cases of cancer in France, which amounted to 433,136 for the year 2023, but which affect very young patients.
The fight against cancer makes progress every year, but individual and collective efforts must continue to reduce the burden of these diseases.
Read also – More obstetric complications after cancer?
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**Interview with Dr. Claire Moreau, Oncology Specialist at the National Cancer Institute (INCa)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Moreau. In September 2024, the INCa released its annual cancer overview, highlighting some concerning trends. Can you summarize the key findings for us?
**Dr. Moreau:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The 2024 cancer overview reveals an overall increase in cancer cases across France. While we’ve observed a decline in the incidence of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer in men and cervical cancer in women, the total number of cancer cases continues to rise. This can be attributed to several factors, including unfavorable lifestyle choices—specifically rising rates of obesity and tobacco and alcohol use—as well as our aging population and environmental factors like air pollution.
**Interviewer:** It’s alarming to hear about the rise in cancer cases. What can you tell us about the most common types of cancers reported in the overview?
**Dr. Moreau:** The report details the most prevalent and deadly cancers among both men and women. While breast and lung cancers are among the most common, we focus on understanding the trends in diagnosis, treatment, and survival rates for various types of cancer. This comprehensive data helps us identify potential areas for intervention.
**Interviewer:** The overview emphasizes the importance of prevention and screening. Can you explain how these strategies play a crucial role in combating cancer?
**Dr. Moreau:** Certainly! Prevention is our most effective tool in the fight against cancer. We believe that numerous cancers can be avoided through proactive measures. Vaccination is an excellent example—administering the HPV vaccine can help prevent cervical and other related cancers, while vaccination against hepatitis B is critical for liver cancer prevention. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet and reducing tobacco and alcohol consumption, can significantly lower cancer risk.
**Interviewer:** Given the challenges ahead, what steps do you recommend for individuals to take in their daily lives to reduce their cancer risk?
**Dr. Moreau:** I encourage everyone to prioritize a balanced lifestyle. This includes eating a nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption. Knowledge is power; staying informed about cancer screenings and vaccinations can also aid in early detection and prevention. We all have a role to play in reducing our cancer risk.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, how can individuals access the latest cancer information and recommendations from the INCa?
**Dr. Moreau:** We have made our findings and guidelines readily available on the INCa website, where individuals can find detailed information on cancer types, prevention strategies, and the latest research. It’s crucial that people utilize these resources to better understand and mitigate their cancer risk.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Moreau, for shedding light on this important issue. Your insights will surely encourage our audience to take proactive steps in their health journey.
**Dr. Moreau:** Thank you for having me, and I hope our discussion inspires meaningful action towards cancer prevention.
