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Interview: Cancer specialist Ines Vaz-Luis on changing attitudes in France
The director of the Cancer Survivorship program at Gustave Roussy hospital, talks about her pioneering post-treatment care for breast cancer patients, and changing nature of 'survivorship'
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French doctors repeat warning of stroke risk from common cold medicines
Health authorities want to ban the sale of remedies containing a vasoconstrictor due to the increased risk of complications
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Fact check: Does France offer world’s most generous health reimbursement?
It comes after a government spokesperson made the claim this week
Advice on cancer screenings
I am in my 50s – is it recommended to have regular cancer screening – and, if so, for what types and is it reimbursed? J.S.
YES - here is a list of the main kinds:
- Breast: Regular screening recommended for women aged 50-74. Every two years you should be invited by letter to have a mammography scan at a radiologist’s, with the procedure reimbursed at 100%, with no upfront payment. You can request a test via your doctor if you do not receive a letter
- Colorectal: Recommended for people aged 50-74; consists of a stool examination every two years and is reimbursed as above. If you have a personal or family history of colorectal problems, other measures may be advised.
- Cervical: Women are advised to have a smear test (un frottis) every three years from age 25-65. It costs the price of a normal consultation plus €20.22, which is all state-reimbursed at 70%.
- Skin: For those considered at high risk due to delicate skin or history of problems, a visit to a dermatologist is recommended annually.
There is no systematic prostate screening but if you are over 50 and have risk factors you should talk to your doctor.