2023 Volume 60 Issue 5 Pages 346-350
Insufficient investment in evidence-based cancer control strategies in Japan is attributed to the rarity and diversity of childhood and AYA (Adolescent and Young Adult) cancers, as well as the lack of understanding of these diseases and patient needs. This paper provides an overview of my epidemiological research, using population-based cancer registry data or clinical research datasets. Moreover, it presents assessments of pediatric cancer care needs for families with children diagnosed with cancer. The paper encompasses the background of these studies and offers insights into my experiences conducting studies abroad.
Since 2013, I have been joined with the Cancer Control Center, Osaka International Cancer Institute, undertaking a survey on the treatment of leukemia and lymphoma among AYA patients in Osaka, etc. In 2015, I studied at the University College London, conducting a comparative study of childhood cancer incidence and survival in Japan and the UK, and a comparative study of Wilms tumor in Japan and the UK. In July 2018, I conducted a brief study at the International Agency for Research on Cancer on international comparisons of childhood renal tumor incidence. Furthermore, in 2020, I analyzed data from the Osaka Cancer Registry to summarize long-term trends in leukemia survival in children and AYAs. From 2018 to 2021, with the cooperation of nine hospitals in Osaka Prefecture, I conducted a survey to assess the needs of families with children diagnosed with cancer, focusing on pediatric cancer care. The scope of this survey is currently being expanded to encompass the Kinki area. I look forward to the results being beneficial for young doctors interested in pursuing research opportunities in the future.
