the distress of cancer patients faced with inequalities in access to care

For World Cancer Day, the League Against Cancer is publishing a study with BVA Xsight which denounces the conditions of access to care and its inequalities.

The time between the mammogram which detects breast cancer and the start of treatment has increased from a little over 9 weeks to 11 and a half weeks in a few years: this is double what is recommended by the High Authority for health (HAS). A BVA

Patients are finding it increasingly difficult to get and keep an appointment, but also to obtain their treatments. All cancers combined, the study shows a cumulative delay of two weeks on average between the diagnostic screening examination and the start of treatment. Same thing for the care pathway: its duration has also been considerably lengthened, with an additional six weeks on average.

Drug shortages and excessive out-of-pocket costs

Shortages of certain medications also play a role in extending this duration. 37% of French people have been confronted with this problem, particularly in Paris and in public hospitals, which can sometimes worsen the symptoms or even the cancer itself. Above all, it is almost always drugs intended to treat the complications or side effects of cancer that top the list of shortages, followed by other drugs used during the course of care, such as curares and chemotherapies.

All these difficulties penalize those whose income does not exceed 1,500 euros per month and who find it difficult to be well supported, because the remaining costs are heavy to bear. After breast cancer, Aurélie had to follow hormone therapy for five years, which was expensive: “Hormonotherapy also causes side effects, such as hot flashes and gynecological problems, and for that, we need treatments which are not all reimbursed.”

“I spend around 180 euros per month on treatment for the side effects, I find that totally unfair! This is what is the most difficult for me.”

Aurélie, breast cancer patient

at franceinfo

A third of the patients questioned declared an out-of-pocket cost, of 1,000 euros on average. The BVA Xsight study also highlights gender inequalities in the quality of care pathways: women and people of color are less well cared for. The location of care also plays a role, since 50% of patients from the DROM-COM (overseas territories) encountered one or more difficulties during their care journey.