Last year, when the infection with the new coronavirus spread, the number of people who underwent cancer screening in local governments decreased by about 30% compared to the previous year, according to a survey by the Japan Cancer Society.
The association is calling for consultations, saying that the number of people who are worried about getting infected is decreasing and that they may be found with advanced cancer.
From last month to this month, the Japan Cancer Society conducted a survey of 32 branches in various locations to hear the effects of the new coronavirus.
According to the report, the total number of people who underwent five cancer screenings recommended by the government, gastric cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer, and cervical cancer, was 3,941,000 last year, compared to the previous year. It was found that the number of people decreased by about 1,729,000, or 30.5%.
By month, the rate of decrease was 85.2% in April, 92.7% in May, and 67.9% in June, which decreased significantly mainly during the first wave of infection, while it increased by 1.8% in October and increased in November. Decreased by 2.4% and increased by 22.7% in December, and it is said that the number of consultations has increased as it has become known that the screening facilities are taking measures against infection.
The association analyzes that about 2,100 people may not be able to find the cancer that should have been found by the screening because of the decrease in the number of people who are worried about getting infected.
Director Hiroshi Konishi said, "Delayed consultations may increase the rate of cancers found as advanced cancer. The screening facilities are taking sufficient measures against infection, so please visit us."