Japan is grappling with a rising tide of cancer cases, placing a significant strain on its healthcare system. As the country seeks to address this pressing public health challenge, opportunities for innovation, particularly in the realm of medical devices, are emerging. This article will delve into the details of Japan’s cancer situation and explore the potential for advanced medical technology to improve cancer care.

► A Grim Reality: Cancer as the Leading Cause of Death

Cancer, a serious and potentially life-threatening disease, has become the leading cause of death in Japan. According to the National Cancer Center Japan, an estimated 381,505 lives were lost to cancer in 2021, accounting for a staggering 27% of all deaths in the country. This grim statistic underscores the urgency of addressing this public health crisis.

 

► Popular Cancer Types in Japan: A Gendered Perspective

The landscape of prevalent cancers in Japan exhibits a gendered disparity. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast, colon, and lung cancer. Men, on the other hand, face a higher risk of prostate, stomach, colon, and lung cancer. Understanding these variations allows for targeted prevention and early detection strategies.

 

► Japan’s Rising Cancer Burden: A Call for Enhanced Healthcare Infrastructure

Japan is witnessing a concerning trend: a projected increase in cancer prevalence. A study published in the Journal of Geriatric Oncology estimates that by 2050, the number of cancer cases in Japan will reach a staggering 3,665,900. This rise can be attributed to several factors, including an aging population and lifestyle changes.

The increasing number of cancer cases necessitates a robust healthcare infrastructure. To address this, as of April 1, 2024, a network of 461 medical facilities across Japan have been designated as cancer care collaboration base hospitals, located in Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto and more. These hospitals serve as crucial centers for comprehensive cancer care. 

 

► Rising Cancer Costs in Japan Healthcare

The growing number of cancer cases in Japan is placing a strain on the healthcare system. With rising incidence rates, healthcare expenditure dedicated to cancer care is surging. An estimate suggests that Japan spends roughly US$ 248.6 million annually on cancer treatment alone. The growing demand for cancer treatments in Japan, coupled with the country’s willingness to invest significant resources, offers a prime opportunity for foreign medical device manufacturers to enter the market.

 

► Japan: A Promising Market for Cancer Medical Device Innovation

Because of the serious cancer rate, Japan presents a unique opportunity in the global fight against cancer. The Japanese medical device market is one of the largest in the world, valued at an impressive US$ 40 billion in 2021. This market is projected to experience significant growth, exceeding 5% annually until 2027. This growth creates opportunities for innovative companies to introduce advanced medical devices that enhance cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes.

 

► Openness to Innovation: Embracing the Global Stage

Japan has a strong track record of adopting cutting-edge medical technologies. In 2022, the estimated value of medical device imports stood at US$ 22.7 billion, exceeding domestic production valued at US$ 19.5 billion. This openness to foreign innovation positions Japan as a receptive market for advanced medical devices used in cancer treatment.

 

► Cutting-edge Focus: A Demand for Advanced Technologies

Japan’s reputation for technological prowess extends to medical devices. The country consistently ranks highly in global technology innovation indexes. This focus on cutting-edge solutions translates to a demand for advanced medical devices in cancer treatment. According to the Japanese Foundation For Cancer Research, some of the essential equipment for oncology treatments include diagnostic imaging tools like CT, MRI, PET-CT, ultrasound, mammography, and endoscopy devices. Additionally, radiation therapy advances such as linear accelerators, brachytherapy, and multileaf collimators, along with surgical advancements like laparoscopy, thoracoscopy, and robotic surgery systems, are highly sought after.

 

► A Commitment to Progress: The Cancer Control Act

The Japanese government’s commitment to tackling cancer is evident in the implementation of the Cancer Control Act in 2007. This comprehensive legislation underscores the country’s focus on advancing cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The Act outlines strategies for promoting public awareness, supporting early detection programs, fostering research and development, and ensuring access to high-quality cancer care for all citizens.

 

► A Look Forward: A Collaborative Fight Against Cancer

Japan’s multifaceted approach to combating cancer presents significant opportunities for foreign manufacturers. With a strong research base, openness to innovation, and a commitment to patient care, Japan is seeking advanced medical technologies to enhance its healthcare system. Foreign manufacturers can contribute by offering innovative solutions in areas such as early detection, targeted therapies, and supportive care.

To navigate the complex Japanese regulatory landscape and ensure successful market entry, partnering with Qualtech, a trusted regulatory consulting firm, is essential. Our Japanese experts can provide comprehensive guidance on regulatory requirements, clinical trials, and market access strategies, helping you accelerate your time to market and maximize your impact in the Japanese cancer care market.

 

Contact us now!

 

 

Reference:

1. Cancer in Japan - statistics & facts
2. Current Population Estimates as of October 1, 2023
3. Three‐year survival from diagnosis in surgically treated patients in designated and nondesignated cancer care hospitals in Japan
4. Cancer Prevalence Projections in Japan and Decomposition Analysis of Changes in Cancer Burden, 2020–2050: A Statistical Modeling Study
5. First-Year Healthcare Resource Utilization Costs of Five Major Cancers in Japan
6. Japan - Country Commercial Guide
7. Japanese Foundation For CancerResearch
8. Overview of the “Cancer Control Act”
9. Cancer treatment collaboration base hospitals, etc.
10. Cancer Rehabilitation Provided by Designated Cancer Hospitals in Japan: The Current State of Outpatient Setting and Coordination after Discharge