International Symposium in Commemoration of the Establishment of JCCNB ● About Japan Comprehensive Cancer Network, Breast (JCCNB)

Introduction 　The rate of breast cancer has continued to rise in Japan and is now the most common form of cancer among females. Each year, 35,000 Japanese women develop breast cancer and the resulting number of deaths has risen to 10,000. Clearly breast cancer has become one of the most serious diseases for Japanese women. In the United State and Europe, however, where the rate of breast cancer is three times higher than that in Japan, the death rate has been decreasing since around 1990, thanks to the introduction of clinical trials and other systematized treatment based on evidence-based medicines as well as public awareness programs. It is now incumbent upon Japan to establish close ties with representative organizations and entities overseas to make this same level of world-class medical treatment available in Japan. In June 2005, the Japan Comprehensive Cancer Network, Breast (JCCNB) will begin operating as a nonprofit organization with the purpose of reducing breast cancer in Japan. JCCNB will provide a network through which patients, clinical doctors, researchers, government officials and others exchange information and carry out cancer treatment programs. By fulfilling this mission, the Japan Comprehensive Cancer Network, Breast will aim to provide treatment providers and receivers alike with up-to-date information and support services, ultimately to help breast cancer patients maximize the quality of their lives. Activities 　The Japan Comprehensive Cancer Network, Breast will undertake a variety of activities to facilitate world-class medical treatment for breast cancer patients in Japan. 1) Information Information regarding breast cancer in Japan and overseas, such as the latest information from the American Cancer Society, will be collected and disseminated for the benefit of people including patients and medical professionals.