[National Cancer Control in a Super-Aged Society-Based on the Fourth Basic Plan to Promote Cancer Control].

Abstract

In Japan, the ageing population is progressing rapidly, leading to an increase in the number of elderly cancer patients. These patients often have multiple chronic diseases, and cognitive decline can impact their physical symptoms, decision-making abilities, adherence to treatment, and management of adverse events. As dementia progresses, they require support in their daily lives. It is essential to consider their physical conditions and social backgrounds. In June 2006, the Cancer Control Act was enacted, followed by the formulation of the Basic Plan to Promote Cancer Control in June 2007. The Third Basic Plan, formulated in 2018, promoted comprehensive cancer control through the three pillars of"cancer prevention"", improving cancer medical care", and"living with cancer", addressing"cancer in the elderly"as a new focus in cancer control measures tailored to life stages. The Fourth Basic Plan, approved by the Cabinet in March 2023, aims to"overcome cancer with all, ensuring that cancer control leaves no one behind". It maintains the three-pillar structure of the Third Basic Plan to determine the current situation and challenges in"cancer prevention"", cancer medical care"and"living with cancer"alongside policies to tackle these issues. On this basis, we will continue to promote the development of a collaborative system with local medical institutions and nursing care facilities, and efforts to support the decision-making of elderly cancer patients and their families, so that they can receive appropriate cancer medical care according to their individual circumstances.