The results presented in this report provide estimates of cancer incidence (the frequency of new cases) and mortality in France from 1980 to 2005. They serve as an updated reference to the previous study covering the period 1978–2000. These estimates were produced by the Biostatistics Department of the Hospices Civils de Lyon, the French cancer registries of the Francim network, and the French Institute for Public Health Surveillance. 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 23 sites studied in women. The data produced here pertain to the status of these cancers in 2005 and their trends between 1980 and 2005. The results presented in this publication were derived from comprehensive epidemiological data generated by the registries in the covered departments and from comprehensive national mortality data, using specific statistical methods (age-period-cohort modeling). 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 for each cancer covered by a commentary and the inclusion of warnings where appropriate. (R.A.)