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Challenges

The fight against cancer:
a major public health issue 

Since 2004 cancer has been the no.1 cause of adult mortality in France (ahead of cardiovascular disease). In 2009 it affected some 320,000 new patients – 180,000 men and 140,000 women– versus around 170,000 in 1980. However, the overall survival rate is increasing, with France having one of the highest in Europe.

In the past 25 years, the incidence of cancer has increased sharply as a direct result of a growing and ageing population (400f cancers are diagnosed after age 70). The greatest increases have been in prostate cancer in men, and breast and lung cancer in women.

The growing incidence of cancer led to government action in 2003-2004, with the implementation of the first “Cancer Plan”. The second "Cancer Plan" was launched on 2 November 2009 and focuses on several key issues: 

• ensuring research advances are quickly transferred to the patient and there is greater participation in clinical trials;
• addressing the three human and social challenges: reducing inequalities in facing cancer, improving life during and after cancer, and developing personalised therapies;
• encouraging action and vigilance on issues regarded as critical: unequal access to screening, coordination between home and hospital care, and the sometimes crucial demographics of healthcare professionals.

By creating an environment in Villejuif designed to promote the future of medicine through the development of research and innovation, Cancer Campus® is helping to improve the battle against disease and the conditions of overall patient care.

Photo: IGR