French Celebrities Join Campaign to Boost Colorectal Cancer Screening Rates
In an effort to increase participation in colorectal cancer screenings, a group of prominent French figures have partnered with the Ligue contre le cancer (French Cancer League) for a striking new public health campaign. The initiative aims to encourage individuals aged 50 to 74 to get tested for the disease.
The campaign features actor Franck Dubosc, comedian Kyan Khojandi, singer Suzane, actor Frank Dubosc, content creator Paola Locatelli, Olympic fencing champion Enzo Lefort, and six other personalities posing on toilets. The provocative imagery is accompanied by the message “Va chier” – a deliberately blunt phrase intended to grab attention and spark conversation about a topic often considered taboo.
“Our message, still as impactful, aims to provoke reflection and interest the greatest number of people in a subject that is too often neglected,” stated the Ligue contre le cancer. The campaign emphasizes the importance of screening “even before the appearance of symptoms,” with a simple at-home test available online or through pharmacies. Doctors and gastroenterologists can also administer the screening.
Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern in France, with approximately 47,000 diagnoses and 17,000 deaths each year. The disease affects both men and women equally, ranking as the second most common cancer in women and the third in men. Raising awareness and encouraging early detection are crucial steps in reducing the burden of this disease, as early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes.
According to data from L’Indépendant, if two-thirds of those eligible for screening participated, France could see a 40% reduction in colorectal cancer mortality. The campaign coincides with “Mars bleu” (Blue March), a month dedicated to raising awareness about the disease.
In Saint-Brieuc, a combination of humor and a connected challenge is being used to mobilize the community against colorectal cancer during the month of March.
