Evaluating Japan's cancer control activities: Findings from the third cancer patient experience survey

In this study, we assessed patient experiences with cancer care in Japan as part of the national evaluation of the National Cancer Control Plan. We aimed to identify strengths and gaps in cancer care delivery across patient groups, including those with rare cancers and individuals aged < 40 years, to inform future policy development.

We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional survey between December 2023 and March 2024 using a self-administered mail questionnaire. Eligible participants were selected from the national database of Hospital-Based Cancer Registries using a two-stage stratified random sampling method. Among the 32,716 individuals invited, 11,247 eligible responses were analyzed. Sampling weights were applied to ensure national representativeness. Outcomes included overall ratings of care, information provision, access to care, symptom burden, psychosocial support, and socioeconomic issues.

Patients rated the care they received highly (mean score = 8.2/10); however, notable gaps were identified. Only 55.0% of respondents were aware of the Cancer Counseling and Support Centers, and merely 15.4% were informed about peer support. Patients with rare cancers and those aged < 40 years faced delayed diagnosis, greater difficulty accessing care, and heavier psychosocial and financial burdens. Younger patients were more likely to report emotional distress and unmet informational needs regarding work-related issues than older patients.

Cancer care in Japan is generally well-received; however, significant challenges remain, particularly for younger patients and those with rare cancers. Increasing support service awareness and utilization, along with improved access pathways and targeted support for adolescent and young adult patients, are essential to promoting equitable and patient-centered cancer care under the revised Cancer Control Plan.