[Team medicine in chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer]

In recent years, active new agents have been introduced clinically against colorectal cancer and overall survivals of chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer treatment much improved. For the appropriate treatment and management of targeted therapy with various side effects which is not seen in the anti-cancer agent, the cooperation of physicians, pharmacists and nurses has become mandatory. Furthermore, deep patients understanding for their diseases and treatments and good adherence of oral agents are strongly needed. In addition, liver surgeons in cases of possible hepatectomy and medical social workers (MSW) in case of the problems of high-cost medical care or the transition to palliative care are also required. In this way, the team medicine has become essential in order to continue to practice the appropriate chemotherapy for colorectal cancer. I would like to mention the attempt of Aichi Prefecture which has launched a system to support the team medicine through multicenter, multidisciplinary, and regional cooperation.