Training highlights environmental cancer causes

A new training program at Aix-Marseille university has focused on the environmental causes of cancer, aiming to help oncology interns better understand and address prevention. The initiative seeks to expand the knowledge of medical students beyond traditional treatment-focused education.

Expert stresses beyond individual habits

Pierre Sujobert, a professor involved in the training, emphasized that cancer is not solely caused by individual behaviors like smoking or unhealthy habits. Many people who lead healthy lifestyles still develop cancer, indicating the role of other factors.

Course introduced by a cardiologist and advocate

The training was initiated by Pierre Souvet, a cardiologist and co-founder of the association Santé Environnement France. He proposed the course after reaching out to the dean of the medical faculty at Aix-Marseille university to include students in pneumology and oncology.

Doctors focus more on treatment than prevention

Anthony Goncalves, head of the oncology department, noted that medical training often focuses on treating cancer rather than preventing it. Oncologists frequently choose their specialty to be actively involved in treating diseases, rather than exploring their causes.

Environmental factors linked to rising cancer cases

Pierre Sujobert highlighted that the number of pediatric cancers is increasing, even though children are not typically exposed to smoking or aging factors. He argued that focusing only on avoidable behaviors can overlook the role of environmental causes.

Pollution sources identified by a specialist

Alexis Cortot, from the pneumology and thoracic oncology department of the Lille University Hospital, listed several environmental sources of pollution, including wood heating fires, smoke from cooking, highway traffic, and forest fires.

Pesticides linked to specific cancers

Despite significant advances in treatment, cancer cases are still rising. Pesticides have been identified as a proven risk factor for multiple myeloma and lymphoma, according to medical experts.

Environmental factors gain attention in recent years

Pierre Sujobert mentioned that five years ago, his courses did not cover the chemicals used in farming, even though the link between these chemicals and cancer was already known. Recent laws on agriculture and the environment have made him more aware of the importance of these factors.

Interns now ask about environmental exposure

Amelia Negre, a 28-year-old intern, said the training has inspired her to ask patients about possible environmental exposure. This shift reflects a growing awareness among medical professionals of the role of the environment in health.

Cancer rates and pesticide use rise together

Since 1990, the number of cancer cases in France has doubled, coinciding with a significant increase in pesticide use. Pierre Sujobert humorously noted that proving the effects of pesticides would require an impractical study involving 1,000 healthy volunteers.

Evidence for environmental factors is credible

Anthony Goncalves explained that while the level of evidence for environmental exposure is not as high as for treatments, studies on populations exposed to pesticides are credible and should be taken into account.

Training provides tools for public engagement

Clémence Quere, a 28-year-old oncology intern, said the training gave her the tools to answer public questions and provided a comprehensive bibliography for further study.

Existing evidence calls for action

Anthony Goncalves emphasized the need to act based on current evidence rather than waiting for more data. He also noted that if cancer is linked to work, the cost of treatment is covered by employers through the Social Security system.

Historical awareness of occupational cancers

François Eisinger, a former oncologist, recalled that in the 1970s, medical training included awareness of occupational cancers linked to pesticides and asbestos, but not the recognition of environmental victims.

Doctors can influence environmental policy

Pierre Sujobert, one of the signatories of an op-ed in Le Monde, emphasized the political influence doctors have in advocating for environmental health and the importance of raising awareness among the next generation of medical professionals.