Gastric Cancer Screening in Japan: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Gastric cancer is the second leading cause of cancer incidence in Japan, although gastric cancer mortality has decreased over the past few decades. This decrease is attributed to a decline in the prevalence of H. pylori infection. Radiographic examination has long been performed as the only method of gastric screening with evidence of reduction in mortality in the past. The revised 2014 Japanese Guidelines for Gastric Cancer Screening approved gastric endoscopy for use in population-based screening, together with radiography. While endoscopic gastric cancer screening has begun, there are some problems associated with its implementation, including endoscopic capacity, equal access, and cost-effectiveness. As H. pylori infection and atrophic gastritis are well-known risk factors for gastric cancer, a different screening method might be considered, depending on its association with the individual’s background and gastric cancer risk. In this review, we summarize the current status and problems of gastric cancer screening in Japan. We also introduce and discuss the results of gastric cancer screening using H. pylori infection status in Hoki-cho, Tottori prefecture. Further, we review risk stratification as a system for improving gastric cancer screening in the future.

Research trends in endoscopic applications in early gastric cancer: A bibliometric analysis of studies published from 2012 to 2022

“…However, from the “point of no return” ( 30 ) perspective, which entails identifying and treating curable lesions as early as possible through screening and surveillance endoscopy, H. pylori eradication may not reduce the risk of this gastric cancer cascade in patients with intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia. The optimal age and intervals for screening differ worldwide ( 31 ). Japan and the Republic of Korea have established national screening programs for years.…”

Epidemiological, Clinical, and Pathological Characteristics of Gastric Carcinoma in The Northwest Region of Algeria: A Single Center Study

“…Moreover, 22 patients (17.8%) presented with distant metastases, including two patients (1.5%) that had two sites of metastasis. Early detection rates of gastric cancer (relatively curable) have exceeded 70% in Japan as a result of gastric cancer screening programs, where gastric cancer incidence is still high (Yashima et al, 2022).…”

Molecular Classifications in Gastric Cancer: A Call for Interdisciplinary Collaboration

“…Geographical differences have been observed between Asian and Western countries, with GC being more prevalent in Asian regions. In fact, some high-incidence countries have implemented screening strategies that have improved early detection and patient outcomes [ 5 , 6 , 7 ]. Furthermore, geographic variations related to clinical, histological, prognostic, surgical, and treatment response factors have been noted [ 8 , 9 , 10 ].…”