Rising Cancer Rates Among Younger Adults Prompt Calls for Early Screening Reforms

Experts highlight increasing cancer incidence in people under 50 and debate lowering screening age thresholds for earlier detection.

Recent studies show a steady rise in cancer diagnoses among individuals under 50, particularly for colorectal, breast, and digestive cancers.
In France, breast cancer cases among women aged 40–50 have grown significantly, with 14% of all breast cancer diagnoses in 2023 occurring in this age group.
The French government is considering lowering the age for organized breast cancer screenings from 50 to 45, following similar European recommendations.
Disparities in cancer screening rates across France, influenced by socioeconomic and geographic factors, hinder early detection and treatment efforts.
Health officials emphasize the importance of organized screening programs, which provide more reliable results compared to individual screenings, and push for increased accessibility and public awareness.