On October 7, 2026, Danielle Simonnet, a member of the Ecologist and Social group in the National Assembly, raised concerns about why breast cancer has not been officially recognized as an occupational disease in France. Simonnet referenced several studies that highlight the complex, multifactorial ways in which breast cancer may be linked to work environments. As the most deadly cancer among women in France, responsible for nearly 13,000 deaths each year, breast cancer has become a significant public health concern. Simonnet argued that the condition should be recognized as an occupational disease by default, citing evidence that suggests occupational factors play a major role in its development. Breast cancer may be influenced by various work-related factors, including night shifts, exposure to ionizing radiation, contact with chemicals such as pesticides and cleaning products, musculoskeletal issues, and psychosocial stress. However, currently, for breast cancer to be classified as an occupational disease and qualify for compensation, an affected woman must prove that her job was a major cause of her illness. This requirement makes it challenging to establish a professional link, as breast cancer is not included in the list of diseases for which a connection to work is automatically assumed. Inclusion of breast cancer on the list of occupational diseases would require collaboration with paritary organizations—groups representing both employers and employees. If recognized, it would grant access to a standardized compensation under certain conditions. Today, each affected woman must fight in court to demonstrate a "direct and essential" link between her illness and her work. Simonnet questioned government representatives about their resistance, particularly with the Medef, the employers' association, which is reportedly slowing down progress on the issue. The Minister of Labor, Jean-Pierre Farandou, responded that there is a formal process to follow and that it requires paritary discussions. Farandou was seen wearing a pink ribbon on his jacket, a common symbol of support for breast cancer awareness, especially during the "October Rose" campaign.