League Against Cancer unveils 2027 election pact

The Ligne contre le cancer, also known as the League Against Cancer, announced a detailed "pact" on October 16, aimed at guiding candidates in the 2027 presidential election on how to combat cancer more effectively. This pact includes twelve specific proposals designed to address various aspects of cancer prevention, treatment, and research.

Cancer's impact on French society

Cancer affects around 430,000 people in France each year, making it a significant public health concern. The League Against Cancer's proposals focus on reducing risk factors, improving prevention, and enhancing treatment accessibility for all segments of the population.

Tackling alcohol and tobacco risks

The pact highlights the role of alcohol and tobacco in causing cancer, with alcohol responsible for 8% of cancers and tobacco linked to nearly 90% of lung cancers. The League Against Cancer proposes banning the sale of tobacco to people born after 2014 and modifying the alcohol warning message to be more direct.

Nutrition and food policies

The association also calls for stricter food regulations, including the mandatory display of Nutri-Score ratings on all food products. It recommends incorporating the Arcom Food Charter into law and better regulating food advertising directed at children to promote healthier eating habits.

HPV vaccination and prevention

To reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers, the League Against Cancer suggests making the HPV vaccine more accessible and available to children starting at age 9 instead of 11. This would help prevent infections that can lead to several types of cancer, including cervical and throat cancers.

Environmental factors and cancer

The association emphasizes the role of environmental factors, such as pollution and harmful substances like pesticides and PFAS, in contributing to 5 to 10% of cancers. It calls for a reassessment and adaptation of current safety standards to better protect public health.

Improving cancer screening and treatment

While current cancer screenings like mammograms and colonoscopies are fully covered, the League Against Cancer notes that some complementary tests are not. It recommends prohibiting excessive fees for these tests and limiting financial strain on patients and their caregivers during treatment.

Promoting physical activity and reducing treatment burdens

The association advocates for including financial coverage of physical activity in common law, as it reduces cancer-related mortality by 37%. It also calls for reducing the burden of heavy treatments by funding more clinical trials focused on less harmful therapies.

Ensuring quality care and research sovereignty

The League Against Cancer proposes stricter regulations to ensure that oncology prescriptions are followed properly and that patients receive appropriate care throughout their treatment. It also supports French sovereignty in cancer research and innovation to improve access to care and administrative efficiency.