Institut Claudius Regaud

Epidemiology

Epidemiology studies show that the number of people contracting cancer and the mortality rate have not dropped in comparison to other diseases. In France, cancer is the leading cause of death in men and the second leading cause of death in women. The National Health Monitoring Institute has published an estimate of the number of cancer cases and the number of cancer related deaths between 1980 and 2005.

View the report.

Prevention

Epidemiology is a key factor in the prevention of cancer because it identifies causes of cancer and therefore leads to better treatment. Epidemiology studies have highlighted key risk factors linked to cancer. Prevention policies aimed at reducing the occurance of cancer have been launches as a result.

There are multiple known risk factors:

• Genetic risks which cause 5 to 10% of cancers. Transmission to family members is highly likely if a predisposed gene mutates. Oncogenetics have been in place at the Institute since 1995. Risks can be identified and customised monitoring programs can be implemented for people at risk of contracting breast, ovarian and colon cancer.
• Environmental risks such as the sun. 70% of skin cancer cases are directly related to ultraviolet A and B rays from the sun. They are responsible for two forms of cancer: carcinomas and melanomas. Carcinomas mainly occur in older people, usually on open body parts (face, hands) after long term short periods of exposure to the sun's rays during childhood. Individuals with pale complexions (blond and red haired) and individuals with numerous beauty spots and moles are more likely to be affected.
• Smoking is a major cause of most types of cancer (major risk for most cancers (respiratory tract, oral, bladder etc.). Passive smoking increases the risks of cancer by 20 to 30%.
• Alcohol consumption. Epidemiology specialists agree that there is link between alcohol and oral, pharynx and oesophagus cancer.
• Viruses and infections. 25% of cancers result from infections. It would be possible to reduce the occurance of viro-induced diseaes through screening and immunisation. Some examples are: Hepatitis B immunisations (Hepatic cancer), treatment for Helicobacter pylori infection (stomach cancer) or even early screening for HPV to prevent cervical cancer.
• Food. Unbalanced diets and being overweight are both factors that lead to cancer. Regular consumption of fruits and vegetables helps prevent against the risk of cancer.
• Air pollution, even if there is currently a lack of conclusive evidence.
• Exposure to dangerous substances in a work situation. Cancer can result from exposure to some substances such as asbestos, benzene and arsenic.

Sources: the INCa, National League against Cancer, International Cancer Research Centre.