The research report titled “A Nationwide Survey on Cancer in Japan: 20 Years Since the Enactment of the Basic Act on Cancer Control”, released on April 28, 2026, was featured in the September 24 morning print edition and online edition of The Yomiuri Shimbun, together with a comment by Health and Global Policy Institute (HGPI) Manager Ms. Yui Kohno.

This survey covers a wide range of topics, including: knowledge of cancer treatment, attitudes toward the centralization of medical functions, participation in cancer screening, perceptions of cancer genomic medicine, and perceptions of medical costs and the healthcare system.

The article discusses how, amid a declining number of physicians and patients, the national government is considering consolidating hospitals with a focus on advanced medical care such as surgery and radiation therapy. It notes that many of those in favor of consolidation also called for transportation to hospitals to be secured and for public subsidies. In addition, it emphasizes the importance of considering, together with residents and patients, what form of healthcare delivery system would best suit each region.

For further details on the nationwide survey, please click here.