France bans smoking in beaches, in parks and bus shelters - International
France will ban smoking on beaches and in parks, public gardens and bus shelters from Sunday, the government said.
The decree, published in the official government gazette on Saturday, will also ban smoking outside libraries, swimming pools and schools, and is aimed at protecting children from passive smoking.
The decree did not mention electronic cigarettes. Violators of the ban will face a fine of 135 euros ($158).
"Tobacco must disappear from places where there are children," Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin had said in May, underscoring "the right of children to breathe pure air".
Cafe terraces are excluded from the ban.
Some 75,000 people are estimated to die from tobacco-related complications each year in France.
According to a recent opinion survey, six out of 10 French people (62 percent) favour a smoking ban in public places.
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Cancer doesn't care about borders or languages, so neither should we. This visit reflects that spirit. I visited two hospitals and met impressive medical teams. Their knowledge, enthusiasm, and professionalism were clear. We discussed complex hematology cases, including multiple myeloma, leukemias, and other conditions. AO: What is your impression of cancer treatment during the visit? JB: Very positive. Diagnostic and treatment protocols are well-managed. Egyptian teams are skilled in applying prognostic factors and therapeutic strategies effectively. That's a very solid foundation. AO: Where do you see the main challenges? JB: The talent is here; the will is here. However, some factors—such as sterile airflow rooms and air and water treatment systems—require ongoing investment. That's essential for advanced therapies and infection control. While academic research plays a significant role, much of the innovation also comes from biotech and pharmaceutical companies. These companies are brilliant, but they are driven by profit. So, we need to strike a balance between academic research and corporate-led research to avoid potential pitfalls or limitations. Clinical research is a key point. The shift must be from 'excellent care' to 'excellent care + clinical research.' That requires standardized treatment protocols, centralized data systems, and a team-wide mindset change. The tools are there, but the framework needs to be structured. AO: Could this new Gustave Roussy partnership transform cancer care in the region? JB: Absolutely. This initiative can serve as a model for others to follow. We're not replacing what Egyptian doctors and hospitals are already doing—on the contrary, we're supporting and amplifying it. By building secure patient data systems and treatment pathways, we can improve survival rates. Many children with leukemia may not receive the full treatment or discontinue it due to systemic issues. That's something we must address. 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It's also essential to undergo early screening, particularly for individuals with a family history of cancer, as timely detection can save lives. Lastly, trusting in multidisciplinary care is key—collaboration among doctors from various specialities often leads to the most effective treatment strategies. AO: Does mental health influence cancer development? JB: Not directly. However, lifestyle and stress influence behaviour, including diet, sleep, and physical activity, all of which impact overall health. Mental well-being is indirectly related to cancer prevention. AO: Any final thoughts before you leave? JB: I'm truly glad about the partnership between our institution and the Egyptian medical community. It's not just a symbolic or virtual link—we're building real connections. Egypt is a key partner for us moving forward. The people here are highly educated, enthusiastic, and full of potential. The country can become a central hub for excellence in cancer care in the region. 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