The results presented in this report provide estimates of cancer incidence (the frequency of new cases) and mortality in France from 1978 to 2000. They serve as an updated reference to the previous study covering the period 1975–1995. These estimates were produced by the Department of Biostatistics at the Hospices Civils de Lyon, in collaboration with the French cancer registries, which are part of the FRANCIM network, and the INSERM Center for Epidemiology of Medical Causes of Death. The publication of this work is the result of a collaboration between these organizations and the Department of Chronic Diseases and Traumas at the French Institute for Public Health Surveillance (DMCT-InVS). Readers will find in this report a detailed analysis of cancer incidence and mortality data in France, presented in a standardized format for all cancers and for each of the 21 cancer sites studied in men and the 24 sites studied in women. The data produced here cover the status of these cancers in 2000 and their trends between 1978 and 2000. Comparisons between registry data at the departmental level and European comparisons are also provided. Additionally, readers will find general information on the partner organizations, as well as sociodemographic data and health indicators for the departments covered by the registries. The results presented in this book were derived from comprehensive epidemiological data using specific statistical methods. They are intended for anyone interested in the issue of cancer, whether a decision-maker, clinician, researcher, or ordinary citizen seeking information. Understanding these data is facilitated by the inclusion of comments or caveats, and by the availability of a commented analysis for each type of cancer covered. (R.A.)