Laurent Castillo· PfE

Nuanced

In France, 12 weeks are needed between diagnosis and treatment due to lack of specialists, whereas recommendations advise acting within six weeks

Omissions

• The 12-week figure appears to be specific to certain cancer types (particularly thoracic cancers) and measures from 'suspicion' to treatment rather than strictly 'diagnosis' to treatment
• Data from October 2024 shows shorter average waiting times for common cancers: 23.4 days for colorectal cancer and 40 days for breast cancer
• The claim does not specify that this data refers specifically to cancer care rather than general medical conditions
• The 6-week recommendation mentioned could not be verified from official HAS (Haute Autorité de Santé) sources

Sources

• PrimaryBulletin Épidémiologique Hebdomadaire - Santé Publique FranceMedian delay between diagnosis and first treatment was 9-14 days for colon cancer (1999-2008 period)
• AcademicRevue des Maladies Respiratoires (ScienceDirect)Median time of 12 weeks between suspicion of cancer and start of treatment for thoracic cancers
• SecondaryFHPMCO - Dialogue Santé n°50 (Octobre 2024)Average access time to treatment is 23.4 days for colorectal cancer and 40 days for breast cancer