French Healthcare Professionals Tackle Cancer Risk Through Lifestyle Awareness
Dijon, France – Healthcare professionals from the Georges-François-Leclerc (CGFL) center and the Dijon University Hospital (CHU) joined forces this past weekend to raise public awareness about the link between lifestyle choices and cancer risk.The focus of the event was on educating the public about the dangers of tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis consumption. “Days like these are valuable because they allow us to share scientific information with the public,” explained Jean-Michel Boyer, an addiction specialist at the CHU. “This empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health.”
Targeting Women for Prevention
The campaign specifically targeted women, as they are disproportionately affected by certain cancers linked to lifestyle choices. Alcohol consumption, for example, is responsible for 8% of cancers in France, primarily affecting the digestive tract, esophagus, and breast. Tobacco use, on the other hand, is linked to 20% of cancers, notably those affecting the lungs, bladder, and airways.
“We are focusing on primary prevention, particularly among women, due to the parity in consumption patterns, especially regarding tobacco,” stated Boyer.
Duration Matters: The Long-Term Impact of Consumption
Séverine Ledeuil, a tobacco specialist at the CGFL, emphasized that the duration of tobacco use is as crucial as the quantity. “Smoking one cigarette daily for your entire life carries the same risk as smoking twenty cigarettes daily for ten years,” she explained.
Holistic Approach to Cancer Prevention
The healthcare professionals stressed the importance of a holistic approach to cancer prevention, encompassing a healthy lifestyle. They also offered support to individuals seeking to understand and manage their consumption habits.
“It can be challenging to confront one’s consumption patterns and be honest about their relationship with tobacco or alcohol,” acknowledged Ledeuil. ”We are here to guide individuals on potential improvements and strategies, but ultimately, it is a very personal journey that requires courage.”
She added, “People can assess their consumption without necessarily aiming to quit, but at least consider reducing it while gaining reliable information.”
French Healthcare Professionals Tackle Cancer Risk: An Interview
Time.news Editor: thank you for joining us, Dr. Boyer. Can you tell us more about this recent healthcare campaign focusing on lifestyle choices and cancer risk?
Dr. Jean-Michel Boyer: It was a valuable opportunity to connect with teh community and provide them with essential information about the strong link between lifestyle choices and cancer.
Time.news Editor: I understand this campaign specifically targeted women. Why is that?
Dr. Boyer: While these risks apply to everyone, women in France are more susceptible to certain cancers linked to lifestyle factors like tobacco and alcohol use. We want to empower women to make informed decisions that prioritize their long-term health.
Time.news Editor: What are some of the key lifestyle factors driving this risk?
Dr. boyer: Tobacco and alcohol are meaningful contributors to cancer development. For instance, alcohol consumption is responsible for 8% of cancers in France, primarily affecting the digestive tract, esophagus, and breast. tobacco use, on the other hand, is linked to 20% of cancers, affecting various organs including lungs, bladder, and airways.
Time.news Editor: And what’s the message regarding tobacco use?
Séverine Ledeuil: It’s not just about the amount you smoke, but also the duration. Smoking even one cigarette a day for your entire life carries the same risk as smoking twenty cigarettes daily for ten years. Every smoke poses a potential threat to your health.
time.news Editor: What advice do you give individuals who may be seeking to reduce their consumption of these substances?
Dr. Ledeuil: It’s a personal journey, and we encourage individuals to seek support and guidance.We provide information and strategies to help them make informed choices, whether it’s quitting entirely or simply reducing their consumption.
Time.news Editor: can you tell us more about the holistic approach you emphasize?
Dr. Boyer: A healthy lifestyle encompasses many factors, including diet, exercise, and stress management. We promote a comprehensive approach to cancer prevention that considers all aspects of well-being.
Time.news Editor: This campaign sounds incredibly significant. Any final thoughts for our readers?
Dr. Ledeuil: Knowledge is power. By understanding the link between lifestyle choices and cancer risk, we empower individuals to take control of their health and make informed decisions. It may seem daunting, but even small changes can make a significant difference.