Rhône Department Sees Sharp Decline in Breast Cancer Screening Rates
Lyon, France – Breast cancer screening participation in the Rhône department has fallen sharply, dropping 1.9 percentage points to 48.5%,according to new data released during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This places the Rhône as the second-lowest performing department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, considerably behind the regional goal of 70% participation.
While the overall screening rate for women aged 50-74 in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes remains stable,hovering between 51.6% (2022-2023) and 51.7% (2023-2024), the decline in the Rhône is a concerning trend. The department only recently surpassed a 50% participation rate last year, highlighting the fragility of progress and the urgent need for renewed efforts to encourage screening. This decline puts more women at risk of late-stage diagnoses, potentially impacting treatment outcomes and survival rates.
To address this, the ARA coordination center has launched an interactive map to help residents locate the nearest radiology center for mammography appointments: www.depistagecanceraura.fr/rendez-vous-mammographie.
Throughout October, a series of events are planned to raise awareness and promote screening, including information stands hosted by France work and the CPAM in Part-Dieu (October 2), a cancer forum in Décines (October 9), a walk in Rillieux-la-Pape (October 10), and events in Lyon’s 8th arrondissement and Mornant.
For a complete schedule of events and further information, visit www.auvergne-rhone-alpes.sante.ars.fr.
