Overview

• Phosphate fertiliser use has driven significant cadmium accumulation in French soils and food staples such as cereals, bread, pasta and potatoes.
• Regional doctor unions warned of an explosive rise in cadmium contamination among both adults and children, pointing to heightened cardiovascular and cancer risks.
• Health Minister Yannick Neuder confirmed that cadmium screenings, currently reimbursed only in hospitals, will be covered by city-based medical consultations starting autumn 2025.
• The Albane public health survey will launch this year to systematically assess exposure to cadmium, pesticides, bisphenols and other environmental hazards.
• A proposal to create a national cancer registry, first approved by the Senate in April 2023, is set for discussion in the National Assembly on June 23, 2025.