Current Status of Acupuncture Safety Promotion Strategies in Japan.

Abstract

Introduction: The Japan Society of Acupuncture and Moxibustion (JSAM) and experts on the safety of acupuncture and moxibustion (AM) in Japan have focused on safety improvement among acupuncturists, moxibustionists (AMists), and AM-practicing physicians. This article provides an overview of the activities conducted by academic experts in AM safety, primarily from the JSAM, to improve AM safety.

Discussion: The JSAM formed the Safety Committee in 1998 to collect data regarding AM-related adverse events, provide relevant information to members, and conduct educational activities to prevent malpractice. Early literature reviews on AM-related adverse events in Japan published by the committee significantly shifted the paradigm regarding the awareness of AM safety among Japanese AMists and AM-practicing physicians. The committee has been holding educational workshops on safe clinical AM practices at the annual conferences of the JSAM, managing a website on AM safety strategies, conducting various surveys on AM safety, and performing periodic literature reviews of AM-related adverse events. In recent years, the committee has focused on publishing guidelines and manual books. This article briefly describes the guidelines published in 2020, as well as a practical manual based on these guidelines that was published in 2024.

Conclusion: Despite extensive efforts in this area, further enhancement of safety management education in Japan is essential. The information provided herein is expected to stimulate the exchange of ideas, discussions, and innovations for improving AM safety worldwide.