Overview
- The Health Ministry will introduce non-systematic cadmium screening reimbursed 60% by public insurance and 40% by complementary plans, with the decree setting terms due this summer.
- Testing will focus on people considered at risk because of where they live, using urine assays as the primary tool and blood tests if needed, with doctors guided by a 1 µg/g creatinine urinary threshold.
- Authorities cite geologically cadmium‑rich areas and neighborhoods near polluted industrial sites as priority zones, and physicians will decide on tests when patients show renal or bone concerns.
- Anses reports that in 2025 nearly half of the population exceeded reference values for cadmium exposure, though experts note some lab methods may have overestimated urinary levels.
- Diet is the main non‑tobacco source and phosphate fertilisers drive most new inputs to soils, as Anses urges an immediate 20 mg/kg fertiliser limit and the Agriculture Ministry proposes a slower phase‑down, while officials also plan child‑focused hygiene advice and nutrition experts stress varied diets over food bans.