Headlines - Mesothelioma Becomes the 31st Reportable Disease in France

As of January 12, 2012 (Decree No. 2012-47), the reporting of mesothelioma cases is mandatory. Any new case of mesothelioma, regardless of its anatomical location (pleura, peritoneum, pericardium, testicular tunica vaginalis), must now be reported to the Regional Health Agency (ARS) by any physician or clinician (pulmonologist, surgeon, oncologist, general practitioner, etc.) who makes the diagnosis. This 31st mandatory reporting requirement (DO), intended primarily for epidemiological knowledge, is part of the broader 2009-2013 Cancer Plan and complements the surveillance provided by the National Program for the Surveillance of Pleural Mesotheliomas (PNSM) in 23 metropolitan departments, established in 1998. It is important to note that the DO in no way replaces the occupational disease reporting system [...].