Top 5 Health News Stories from Japan in 2021
Japan has always been at the forefront of the latest technological advancements, and its health sector is no different. In 2021, Japan saw numerous breakthroughs in medical research, healthcare innovations, and public health. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 5 health news stories that made headlines in Japan this year.
1. Japan’s COVID-19 Response
Japan was one of the first countries to report COVID-19 cases in early 2020 and has managed the pandemic remarkably well since then. Despite being one of the oldest populations globally, Japan has managed to avoid the high death tolls seen elsewhere. Japan’s COVID-19 response has focused on three key areas: early response, vigilant monitoring, and social responsibility. The country’s response to COVID-19 has been held up as an example of how to manage a pandemic effectively.
2. Cholesterol-lowering drug
In February 2021, two researchers from the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center in Japan received the Nobel Prize in Medicine for discovering a cholesterol-lowering drug. This game-changing drug, called statins, can lower cholesterol levels in the blood and significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Statins have become the most widely prescribed drug in Japan and around the world.
3. Japan’s Health Monitor Program
In March 2021, the Japanese government launched a new program aimed at improving the health of citizens. The program, called the Health Monitor Plan, involves using data analysis and data science to monitor the health of the population. By implementing personalized health coaching and risk assessment on a wide scale, Japan aims to reduce the number of people who develop chronic diseases and to improve their quality of life.
4. Advancements in Cancer Research
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In 2021, Japanese researchers made several breakthroughs that could change the way we approach cancer treatment. Researchers found that S-1, a drug that has been used to treat stomach cancer for several years, may also be effective in treating other types of cancer. Additionally, researchers in Japan have been working on developing vaccines that target specific cancer cells and have shown promising results.
5. Japan’s Universal Health Coverage
Japan has one of the world’s most comprehensive healthcare systems. Since 1961, all citizens have been required to have health insurance, and the government subsidizes the cost for low-income citizens. In 2021, Japan expanded its universal health coverage to include coverage for fertility treatments and more extensive cancer treatments. This move is expected to lead to more successful outcomes for those with infertility and cancer.
Conclusion
Japan’s healthcare sector has always been at the forefront of innovation, and the developments in 2021 were no exception. From its world-renowned COVID-19 response to cancer research and universal health coverage, Japan continues to pave the way for effective and equitable healthcare. As the world continues to face health challenges and diseases, Japan’s health sector innovations will undoubtedly be at the forefront of fighting them.
