Early Cancer Detection
Preventing Dementia
Kampo: Wisdom of Japanese Traditional Medicine
Relief for Aching Backs
Sleepless No More
Healing Waters
Robots Aid Recovery
Acupuncture - Balancing Your Energy Flow
Astaxanthin - The Color of Health
Medical equipment makers and doctors in Japan are making complex, delicate coronary stenting procedures safer for patients. Their efforts have won international recognition.
Japanese researchers' studies into fat led to the discovery of a potentially potent weapon against lifestyle-related illnesses. It's a hormone called Adiponectin that boosts our resilience to diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. The latest research shows adiponectin is also effective against cancer. Some foods can encourage adiponectin secretion. We'll show you how with recipes created by a Japanese doctor.
Cutting-edge technologies developed in Japan are expanding treatment options for cancer patients. The first of a 2-part series looks at the latest radiation therapies. One uses a facility to irradiate cancerous tissue with pinpoint accuracy. Another harnesses the power of neutrons to destroy cancerous cells. We'll also share a 5-minute exercise to counter the health risks of prolonged sitting.
The second of a two-part series on fighting cancer looks at how the tiny capsules are revolutionizing cancer care. And we'll share ideas for making miso paste part of your healthy diet.
Oral hygiene is vital for good health. Researchers are discovering how periodontal disease can aggravate illnesses such as diabetes and liver ailments. We'll also offer advice on correct brushing.
This time, "early detection of cancer" and "wasabi dishes with cancer prevention effect", Dr. Yoko Fukuya's paper on ``wasabi's cancer-inhibiting effects'' was introduced.
Power of Soy (Part 1) - Anti-aging Soy Protein
Power of Soy (Part 2) - Cancer-Fighting Isoflavones
Better Care Through 3D
Targeting Proteins, Fighting Dementia
Researchers in Japan are creating robotic companions that can communicate with and care for the elderly. We'll also share simple nursing care tips for helping the elderly and people with disabilities.
Scientists in Japan are helping stroke patients recover movement by using computers to transmit signals from their brains to their bodies. We'll also share simple exercises for stimulating your brain.
Naturally derived kampo medicine came to Japan from China some 1,500 years ago and evolved into a uniquely Japanese medical tradition. Increasingly, Japanese doctors are using kampo in conjunction with modern medicine. We look at how kampo can ease the side effects of cancer treatment, by alleviating pain and numbness and stimulating appetite. Researchers say it may even keep cancer from spreading. We'll also share kampo-inspired dishes to boost your immune system.
Naturally derived kampo medicine has a long tradition in Japan. We look at how traditional kampo remedies can improve insomnia and dementia-related symptoms, and enhance mental health.
Search for Japanese Superfoods
The latest 3D imaging technologies, such as virtual reality and projection mapping, are bringing about a surgical revolution. We'll also share a training method to strengthen your core muscles.
Chronically aching knees and shoulders can make daily life a struggle. Until recently, the root causes have been unclear.
Omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, can help prevent strokes and heart disease. Japanese doctors prescribe EPA pills for lifestyle-related illnesses. And we'll share recipes rich in Omega-3s.
Improving the balance of the "gut flora", an ecosystem of microbes in the intestines, can help prevent lifestyle-related diseases. We'll explore ways to keep the gut flora in good condition.
A groundbreaking test developed in Japan can detect early-stage cancer with just a few drops of saliva. It's one example of how researchers are focusing on substances in saliva for making diagnoses.
Sudden spikes in blood sugar are hard to detect, but they've been linked to heart attacks, dementia and cancer. Japanese experts have found that changes in diet and eating habits can be effective.
In Japan, a surgical procedure for breast cancer replaces a scalpel with a needle, and a high-tech imaging tool is making detection easier. Such advances are bringing hope to breast cancer patients.
Stomach cancer used to be Japan's deadliest cancer, but now it's widely seen as a curable disease. We'll explain how experts are working to eradicate stomach cancer through detection and treatment.
Telemedicine Transforms Healthcare
Getting Back On Your Feet
Search for Superfoods in Nagano
This special episode features superfoods from Okinawa in southwestern Japan. Research shows the traditional local diet including Okinawan-style tofu and seaweed supports long, healthy lives.
On this special episode, we visit Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture in search of Japanese superfoods. We feature the distinct food culture developed by samurai and explore how it can support longevity.
We usually exercise our muscles for better strength and fitness. In Japan, researchers have found that working muscles can also help treat or prevent a wide range of illnesses. 2 effective methods are in use at Japanese medical facilities. One, called slow training, has the same impact on muscles as a hard workout, and helps patients with diabetes control their blood-sugar levels. The other method, called "kaatsu training", has proven helpful in rehabilitation, even for patients weakened by illness. We also introduce simple exercise for extending the core muscles.
Headaches affect people around the world, and many rely on painkillers to deal with them. But in Japan, a new treatment that doesn't rely on medication is attracting attention. It uses a daily diary that helps patients identify things that trigger headaches, and any patterns in their symptoms. We also explain how some headache sufferers are finding relief by going to the dentist. And we share some yoga exercises that can keep headaches at bay.
On this special episode, we focus on a small, human-like robot developed by a Japanese scientist. Researchers are studying how it can help people who are socially isolated, connect with others. A German researcher explores whether the robot can be used to benefit elderly people living alone. In Japan, a nursing facility is using it as a conversational companion for people with dementia. And in Italy, a robotics engineer and a psychiatrist have been looking at how it can be used as a communication tool for autistic children.
Research has revealed that we have numerous biological clocks that each operate on an approximately 24-hour cycle. If those clocks go out of sync, we may face an increased vulnerability to various kinds of diseases. We focus on how understanding your circadian rhythm is used to discover more effective ways to prevent or treat illnesses, such as meal plans to adjust our body clocks and cancer treatments with fewer side effects. We also learn about what food items to eat and when, to prevent obesity and get a good night's sleep.
A cutting-edge treatment developed in Japan helps patients' bodies grow new blood vessels. Complications from diabetes and other diseases can compromise blood flow to the extremities. If this causes the cells to die, amputation can become necessary. In a clinical trial now in progress, injecting patients with cultured cells taken from their own blood has halted necrosis and saved limbs. In this episode, we'll also share some simple exercises for activating blood vessels and promoting better circulation.
Tumors or other abnormalities deep inside the brain can be difficult to treat through conventional surgery. If left alone, they can result in breathing problems and other life-threatening complications. On this program, we explore an advanced tool called gamma knife radiotherapy that allows doctors to target and neutralize such growths with precisely concentrated doses of radiation. We also share breathing techniques developed in Japanese Zen Buddhism that reduce stress by promoting the secretion of serotonin.
A treatment method that overturns a common sense of the medical community that "the brain cell does not regenerate" has been developed in Japan, and its practical application is imminent. The key to the treatment are "stem cells", which regenerate various body tissues on a daily basis. Japanese researchers have discovered that stem cells, which have been thought to be absent in adult brains, actually exist in small numbers. A therapy that stimulates brain stem cells in an innovative way and regenerates the brain is entering the final phase of a clinical trial.
Cataract and glaucoma are eye diseases that progress by aging. Both are severe diseases that can cause blindness, but in Japan, unique treatment methods and causes are being investigated. For cataracts, the world is paying attention to a Japanese doctor who has devised an innovative surgical method which is in just over 3 minutes. And distinctive research is progressing at Japanese universities as to what kind of ingredients can delay the progression of glaucoma. How can we save people from blindness? Explore with us the forefront of Japanese ophthalmic medical care.
The latest episode of Medical Frontiers is part of a special series which looks at superfoods around the country. This time we visited Oita Prefecture, where fewer people have died from colorectal cancer over the past 10 years than anywhere else in the country. Research has found that's due to 3 foods the locals eat regularly that help maintain gut health: kabosu citrus fruit, shiitake mushrooms and onions. We'll look at the part these superfoods play in the local diet, share the latest findings on their key components and bring you some healthy, delicious recipes using them.
An innovative heart procedure developed by a Japanese doctor is attracting attention around the world. Known as the "Ozaki method", it makes it possible to reconstruct defective heart valves using a patient's own tissue. It's more cost-effective than using valves made of man-made materials or animal tissue, and patients don't need to worry about additional surgery to replace worn valves or take special medication. The procedure has saved many lives, including children's.
Periodontal disease affects more people worldwide than any other illness, according to the Guinness World Records. It destroys gum and bone, eventually causing teeth to fall out. Periodontal disease may also be linked to life-threatening illnesses, such as pneumonia and diabetes. One drawback of standard treatments is that it's difficult to restore damaged tissue. But a drug developed in Japan regenerates gum and bone, and saves teeth. We'll also look at ways to maintain good oral hygiene, even when disaster strikes.
Rheumatoid arthritis has been considered incurable, but a Japanese hospital that has taken a team-based approach to treatment is making advances. A pioneering study tracking 6,000 patients for nearly 2 decades has shown the efficacy of reduced drug dosages. It also reveals a dramatic increase in rates of remission. Further, surgeons at the hospital are using an innovative procedure that not only saves damaged joints, but also preserves patients' mobility.
Up to 75% of people will experience a foot problem sometime during their lives, according to British podiatrists. Even minor foot or leg trouble can lead to serious complications -- some requiring amputation. The risk is higher for people with diabetes and the elderly. At a Japanese medical center, a team of experts including orthopedic and vascular surgeons, a physician specializing in diabetes, a physical therapist, and a prosthetist is tackling the issue. Find out how they're working to help patients, and save limbs.
We bring you a special episode, celebrating the award of this year's Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine to Tasuku Honjo, Distinguished Professor at Kyoto University. His basic research has led to the development and clinical applications of Opdivo, a groundbreaking new anti-cancer drug that works with immune cells. It has given hope to many cancer patients, and surprised clinical specialists. We'll explore what innovation Opdivo has brought to cancer treatment, and what challenges remain.
This 2-part series on "Regenerative Medicine" shows how it's possible to replace lost or damaged body parts by using human cells. Cell sheets can be used to restore damaged organs, making them functional again. For instance, they can be transplanted to a patient's cloudy cornea to help restore eyesight. Japanese researchers have also developed new technology to regenerate injured knee cartilage using cell sheets. We share some tips on how to relax our eyes to prevent them from aging prematurely.
The "gut flora", an ecosystem of bacteria and other microorganisms in the intestines, plays an important role in human health. Researchers say improving the balance of the gut flora can boost our immunity. In Japan, medical experts give premature babies bifidobacteria to strengthen their weak immune systems. Japanese hospitals give patients drinks rich in so-called "good" bacteria to fight infections after cancer surgery. We'll also share some exercises to keep the intestines in good shape.
Today's sedentary lifestyle can lead to chronic pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders and back. But experts say treatment should go beyond these areas, because sometimes our discomfort is due to hidden causes. What's more, stiff shoulders can be a sign of a life-threatening illness, so the condition shouldn't be ignored. We'll take a close look at some surprising causes of stiff shoulders and treatment options. And we'll learn how to ease shoulder aches and pains with karate techniques.
This 2-part series on "Regenerative Medicine" shows how it is possible to replace lost or damaged body parts by using human cells. Surviving a disease such as cancer can leave scars, both physical and emotional. Whether it's due to a mastectomy or radiation therapy, scars are hard to avoid. Fat-derived stem cells can help patients return close to their original state, providing peace of mind. We also look at the benefits of using oil to balance the amount of fat in a body.
Working long hours, worrying about financial problems, looking after the elderly and children… Modern lifestyle can be a recipe for exhaustion. Japanese researchers are trying to find the root causes of fatigue and ways to treat it. They've discovered that components found in foods such as chicken and fish are highly effective. And clinics in Japan that specialize in treating fatigue are using advanced research to help patients. We'll also share exercises and tips for restful sleep.
A Japanese hospital has introduced an advanced system for cooking and delivering 200 kinds of dishes suited to individual patients' conditions and tastes. Unlike typical hospital food, these meals are appetizing and tasty, and they help speed recovery. And a doctor and a pharmaceutical company have developed a way to soften meat and other foods while keeping their original shape. It's easy to chew, and helps elderly people maintain a balanced diet. We'll also share cancer-fighting recipes.
A new drug developed in Japan that destroys cancer cells by boosting the immune system shows potential for transforming treatment. Success stories include patients who couldn't be treated through conventional means, and who had given only months to live. On the other hand, the medication is expensive, it doesn't work for everyone, and there is the risk of side effects. We examine the drug's potential and its challenges. And we share tips for enhancing immunity through better lymphocyte circulation.
Some people lose the ability to speak following surgery for cancer of the mouth or throat. With the help of technologies developed in Japan, they can communicate again using their own voice. One device uses recordings of a patient's voice before surgery to produce speech. And patients who have had part of their tongue removed can learn to speak again using an artificial tongue. We'll see how these technologies improve quality of life, and share exercises for a healthy and beautiful voice.
In the field of elderly care, the Japanese government is promoting the introduction of robots capable of communicating. These "communication robots" have the potential to transform elderly care in Japan, where the population is rapidly aging. In a nationwide experiment, researchers found the robots encourage seniors to stay active, and help prevent feelings of isolation. The experiment also showed how communication robots can help caregivers monitor seniors and meet their needs.
Researchers in Japan are developing new medications by tapping into the rich resources of the sea. They've used a type of marine sponge to make a drug that's now used worldwide to treat breast cancer. A substance in crab shells has been found to help wounds heal faster. It's already being used on animals, and holds promise for treating atopic dermatitis in humans. Oceans have been called Earth's final frontier. Scientists believe they may yield yet more revolutionary medicinal substances.
Conventional wisdom says that cognitive functions decline with age. But a leading Japanese neuroscientist and his team have shown that simple brain-training exercises such as reading aloud and solving basic math equations can help elderly people retain or even sharpen their mental skills. Their findings point to a new path for preventing and treating dementia. We'll also explore how nutrition and exercise can help slow down aging.
In Japan, the development of meticulously lifelike medical simulators is helping students and professionals practice and perfect procedures, and enhancing the quality and safety of health care.
Rice is Japan's staple food. Although high in sugar, rice promotes health. Men in Niigata Prefecture, a main producer, boast Japan's lowest BMI, a gauge of obesity. Rice reduces blood cholesterol and kome-koji made from rice rid the body of fat. A hospital uses mirin, rice-based sweetener which curbs after-meal blood sugar rises, for patients with diabetes. We'll also share recipes for easy-to-make, gluten-free dishes using rice flour. The program explores the secret of superfood, rice, in Niigata.
The first of our two-part series on Japanese acupuncture looks at how it's being incorporated into advanced cancer treatments. At a hospital in Kyoto Prefecture, doctors work in collaboration with acupuncturists. Their work, backed up by scientific studies, suggests that acupuncture is effective against various side effects of surgery and cancer medications. Benefits include promoting post-surgery digestive function and healing in patients with stomach cancer, and easing numbness caused by a widely used drug for breast cancer.
Rice is Japan's staple food. Although high in sugar, rice promotes health. Men in Niigata Prefecture, a main producer, boast Japan's lowest BMI, a gauge of obesity. Rice reduces blood cholesterol and kome-koji made from rice rid the body of fat. A hospital uses mirin, rice-based sweetener which curbs after-meal blood sugar rises, for patients with diabetes. We'll also share recipes for easy-to-make, gluten-free dishes using rice flour. The program explores the secret of superfood, rice, in Niigata.
In the second of our two-part series on Japanese acupuncture, we zero in on its most widely used application: pain-relief. It has long been known that acupuncture can ease pain, and Japanese research is shedding light on the reasons. Holding the keys are blood flow, brain waves, and the autonomic nervous system. We explore acupuncture's potential by seeing how it has helped a migraine sufferer and a fibromyalgia patient.
Falling accidents kill over 640,000 people worldwide each year, making them deadlier than traffic accidents. The elderly are especially vulnerable to falls that leave them bedridden or needing nursing care. Devices designed to reduce the risks are advancing in Japan. One uses suspension to let people experience near falls, and to train the body to react. And a robot created with Japanese automotive technology is helping patients develop better balance.
A therapy developed in Japan called waon, or soothing warmth, has proven effective in patients with severe heart failure and chronic fatigue syndrome. The approach has also shown promise for other difficult-to-treat illnesses. Patients take a dry sauna at a fixed temperature for a set amount of time to raise their core body temperature by about one degree Celsius. We'll look at waon's benefits and why it works. And we'll share some simple warming tips to try at home for better health.
About a third of the world's population is overweight or obese, and the number keeps growing. Obesity can cause various illnesses, including diabetes and heart problems. Japan has led the world in recognizing obesity as a disease, and has been highly successful in helping many people lose weight and regain their health. The approach relies on a well-organized team effort involving different specialists. Their aim is not just to treat obesity, but to improve patients' lifestyle and their psychological health.
A Japanese robotics engineer has developed an innovative prosthesis for people missing hands due to an accident, illness or a congenital disability. The robotic hand picks up electrical signals traveling through the muscles, and uses artificial intelligence to move in accordance with the user's wishes. It's lighter and less expensive than conventional prostheses, and efforts are underway to put it into practical use. A smaller version made for a girl born without one hand allows her to perform complicated tasks, demonstrating how the technology can change people's lives.
We feature superfoods from Okinawa Prefecture in southwestern Japan that may contribute to long, healthy lives. Parts of Okinawa are home to many centenarians. Their diet is rich in foods that have been shown to enhance longevity. Shima-dofu, or Okinawan-style tofu, contains isoflavones that can support bone strength. Mozuku seaweed may fend off lifestyle illnesses and help fight cancer. We'll also share recipes based on Okinawa's traditional cuisine that you can enjoy at home.
The da Vinci surgical robot, which was developed in the US, allows a single surgeon to perform a surgery using 3 robotic arms and an endoscope simultaneously. Difficulties in manipulating it have meant most doctors are unable to make full use of it. But Japanese doctors have come up with a way around this that has also led to a drop in surgical complications. There was a 40% risk of complications such as a loss of voice with esophageal cancer, but that's dropped to 10%. We report on how the robot is allowing safer surgeries.
Tinnitus, a perception of sound when no external source is present, is a dangerous condition that can lead to dementia and mental illness like depression. Japanese doctors have focused on the link between tinnitus and hearing loss and have come up with an effective treatment that trains the brain with a hearing aid. We report on the training, as well as a 2 mm-wide cochlear implant being developed for those with severe hearing loss. We also offer tips on how to train the brain to boost hearing.
One reason for knee pain is the loss of cartilage, but once damaged, it can't regenerate. A way to remedy this has been developed in Japan. It involves transplanting cells that have been cultured using the patient's own cartilage. The success rate is 90%. The secret is three-dimensional cell culture technology combined with a production system that ensures quality control. Nutritionist and health consultant Erica Angyal will also share recipes using foods that are good for the joints.
Colon cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the US. Early detection is important but finding and diagnosing polyps is difficult. 2 AI-powered endoscopes have been developed in Japan to tackle the problem. One can judge a lesion's malignancy in 0.4 second with almost 100% accuracy. The other indicates lesions during an exam, even indistinct ones, like a car navigation system. We also introduce fermented Japanese foods that are beneficial for gut health and explain how they should be eaten.
Incidents at medical institutions can sometimes put patients' lives at risk. The Nagoya University Hospital in central Japan has adopted a system to ensure medical safety. Everyone who works there, from medical professionals to administrative staff, can report incidents. There are 250 a week, and each is examined to determine the cause, with information disclosed to patients. This has led to improvements in procedures and equipment. The system is based on Kaizen, a core principle of Toyota Motor.
In lung cancer surgery, it's common practice worldwide to remove a large area of the organ. The bigger the area, the worse the effect on the patient's quality of life post-surgery. Japanese doctors have developed a procedure that involves removing only a small amount of the lung. In one case, the surgery took an hour and less than a spoonful of blood was lost. The patient was discharged in 3 days and back to normal in a week. We report on the innovative method and its potential.
In part 1 of a 2-part series on superfoods found in Shiga Prefecture, which boasts one of Japan's highest life expectancies, we focus on the blessings of Lake Biwa. The lake is home to several indigenous species, many of which are used in Shiga's traditional dishes. They include the fermented dish Funazushi, which contains a lactic bacterium that boosts the body's immunity. Biwa trout contains astaxanthin, which can prevent strokes. We introduce recipes using these fish.
In part 2 of a 2-part series on superfoods found in Shiga Prefecture, which boasts one of Japan's highest life expectancies, we focus on the local diet. The area is home to many temples. Buddhism gave rise to Shojin Ryori, a cuisine that uses mainly vegetables and beans. As a result, dishes with such ingredients are common in Shiga. Kanpyo prevents lifestyle diseases, while soybeans help maintain the muscles and prevent aging. We introduce easy recipes using these foods and soy milk.
Japan has a unique system of preventive healthcare called the Ningen Dock. The examination makes it possible to pick up on cancers and brain diseases that are difficult to detect in their early stages. It's becoming popular among foreign visitors as they can have the checkup for about US$1,000. A new type of Ningen Dock helps subjects to lead a healthier lifestyle by changing their mindset. In the TIPS segment, we introduce tofu recipes that are effective against lifestyle diseases.
A Japanese surgeon can connect blood or lymph vessels less than 1mm. Supermicrosurgery specialist Takumi Yamamoto, 37, has done 10,000 sutures, reconstructing limbs and treating lymphedema, which had been thought to be impossible. Sensation returns to reconstructed limbs. Lymphedema, which often occurs as a result of cancer treatment, can be remedied by connecting extremely fine lymph vessels. This is made possible with 0.03mm needles made only by Japanese craftsmen.
A treatment developed by a Japanese doctor and his team is helping women with premature menopause to give birth with their own eggs. Premature menopause is triggered by a malfunctioning of the ovaries and affects even those in their teens. The treatment involves activating dormant primordial follicles. We focus on the method, which has been described by TIME Magazine as a global breakthrough. We also introduce herbs that can alleviate symptoms such as those of menopause.
CyberKnife is non-invasive, painless radiosurgery for treating cancer. Even cancers that are difficult to treat with conventional surgery can be removed without damaging surrounding tissue by applying low-dose X-rays at different angles. One treatment takes just 30 minutes and doesn't require a hospital stay. The technology originated in the US and was improved by a Japanese doctor. The number of patients he has treated with it is among the highest in the world.
The first of 2 programs on the latest cancer treatments looks at fluorescence imaging, which causes cancer cells to light up. It's now widely used in Japan for liver cancer surgery. Cancer cells glow, showing the size and location of tumors and making precise surgery possible. Technology is being developed for its use on other cancers such as breast cancer. It will enable surgeons to tell simply by looking at an incision made during an operation if any cancer cells remain in the body.
Genomic medicine is undergoing rapid change after the Japanese public health insurance system began to cover genetic testing in 2019. Cancer patients who meet certain criteria are able to take these tests for a relatively affordable price, and their genetic information is collected in a massive database and analyzed with the help of around 170 hospitals across the country. But challenges remain, with suitable drugs available for only 10% of patients who undergo testing.
This is the first of 2 episodes on longevity-enhancing superfoods in Shimane Prefecture. The death rates from diabetes and liver disease are very low among women in the prefecture. The program looks at how Shijimi clams, a local specialty, and konjac, a food that's been eaten since olden times, keeps the locals healthy. Many households store the shellfish in the freezer, as they're known to contain a liver-protecting substance. Konjac is full of fiber that controls blood sugar and cholesterol.
This is the second of 2 episodes in which nutritionist Erica Angyal travels to Shimane Prefecture to uncover the secrets to a long and healthy life. She learns about Egoma perilla, a herb containing a substance that turns into EPA and DHA when ingested. It suppresses chronic inflammation and improves cognitive function. Erica visits an elderly couple who helped to turn perilla into a local specialty. The program also analyzes the lifestyle and eating habits of a 99-year-old woman to understand the secrets to her health.
iPS cells, which were first generated by Japanese researchers, can turn into any cell in the body. The use of such cells to treat heart failure and spinal cord injuries may soon become a reality. This year, a clinical trial began in which heart muscle cell sheets formed from iPS cells were transplanted into a patient with severe heart disease. Another trial is also scheduled this year that involves the transplantation of neural stem cells made from iPS cells into people with spinal cord injuries.
Japanese researchers are using a new method to develop drugs to treat rare or incurable diseases. They're using iPS cells, which can turn into any cell in the body, to recreate symptoms outside the body and test different drugs on them. We look at how the method is being applied to ALS and an extremely rare disease which affects one in 2 million people and results in bones growing in muscle tissues.
Pancreatic cancer has a 5-year survival rate of under 10% and is often called the "silent killer." It does not cause symptoms in its early stages and is often not detected until it is advanced. But a group of Japanese doctors has come up with a way to detect it early using an endoscope equipped with ultrasound. The procedure takes just 10 minutes. We also introduce tea and a dish using medicinal herbs to boost immunity to prevent coronavirus infection.
Colorectal cancer is the third-most common form of cancer. About 1.8 million people were diagnosed with the disease worldwide in 2018. When it occurs in the rectum, surgery is difficult and requires highly advanced skills as it is close to many organs and surrounded by important blood vessels and nerves. When it is near the anus, many surgeons remove the anus, leaving the patient with a permanent stoma. But a Japanese doctor has succeeded in preserving the anus in over 90% of cases.
What are viruses? How big are they and how do they infect us and cause disease? What are the characteristics of pneumonia caused by the novel coronavirus? What has humanity's long battle with viruses taught us? We answer these questions as we look into the mechanism of infection, the characteristics of the new coronavirus and the history of infectious diseases. They provide us with a new perspective on the pandemic and the relationship between viruses and humanity.
The body's immune system defends against infection, but many people are unaware of how it functions. All its cells are white blood cells, and their tasks include attacking pathogens, activating other immune cells or sending them information about the enemy and building weapons against infection. They all work together to protect the body. But when the immune system is overactivated, a cytokine storm occurs, triggering a more severe form of COVID-19. We look at the mysterious world of immunity.
To protect the body from disease, the immune system's cells must be activated. We focus on 3 ways to do this. One is to consume lactic acid bacteria. These microbes work in the small intestine, where over half the body's immune cells are. Activating these cells helps them attack pathogens and create antibodies to fight viruses. Exercise also activates immune cells, but it can reduce immunity if not done correctly. The third way is through laughter, which is said to boost immune function.
One of the immune system's important roles is to produce antibodies to neutralize pathogens. Japanese researchers found that the activity of immune cells called lymphocytes, which produce antibodies, is closely linked to the autonomic nervous system. A division of the ANS switches on and off, sending signals for the production of antibodies and their circulation around the body. We also focus on how to balance the ANS so that your immunity functions properly.
Vaccines protect the body from infectious diseases. Despite the large number of pathogens that exist, only a few vaccines have been developed. Ensuring the safety and effectiveness of vaccines is very difficult. We look at the history of vaccines, as well as how they are made and how they prevent disease. The COVID-19 vaccine that's closest to completion is a new type. Experts offer their input on its safety and effectiveness.
We focus on a hospital that accepted people from a cruise ship with a COVID-19 outbreak, which has since treated many seriously ill coronavirus patients. At first, little was known about the disease and how to treat it. The number of patients grew along with concerns that staff would become infected and unable to treat patients. The hospital introduced remote monitoring of patients and altered its layout to protect staff. We look at changes hospitals can make to keep functioning amid COVID-19.
A new influenza vaccine developed in Japan is sprayed into the nose. It takes advantage of mucosal immunity in the nose and mouth to stop infection. It has a low risk of side effects and can be used on infants and the elderly. Injected vaccines aim to stop an infection from worsening. They cannot prevent infection itself, but the nasal spray can. The nasal spray vaccine has completed all clinical trials and has the potential to be adapted for use against the new coronavirus.
Depression is a disorder in which chronic stress triggers an abnormality in the brain. Much of the mechanism behind it remains a mystery, but in recent years attention has focused on inflammation that occurs in certain brain cells. We look at why this inflammation occurs and how it causes depression, and hear from an expert who hopes to use this knowledge to create a new drug to treat depression. Studies are also being done on whether stress can be relieved through certain aromas.
We'll introduce herbal tea recipes that will help strengthen your immune system.
COVID-19 - Tips for Healthy Living #2 Balance Your Autonomic Nervous System
It's important to get some exercise while staying home. We'll introduce some simple moves that are easy for the elderly as well.
COVID-19 - Tips for Healthy Living #4 Easy Tips to Improve Your Sleep
COVID-19 - Tips for Healthy Living #5 Zen Tips to Create Peace of Mind
In May 2020, Japan's then-Prime Minister Abe Shinzo declared that the country had successfully contained coronavirus infections thanks to the "Japan Model." An independent committee published a report on this model, which combined a soft lockdown and anti-cluster measures to prevent the spread of infection and limit economic damage. The program focuses on the Diamond Princess cruise ship outbreak, anti-cluster measures, PCR testing and the soft lockdown. We look at the lessons learned from it.
Japanese researchers used a supercomputer to visualize how respiratory droplets spread in everyday situations including dining, office meetings and on public transportation such as taxis, trains and airplanes. They hope these visualizations will prevent people from being overly confident or fearful about COVID-19. One doctor is using such visualizations to prevent infections in home care and nursing facilities. He says such care plays a critical role amid the pandemic.
n Egyptian doctor wrote to the program. He is currently in Japan studying a new medical technique called mechanotherapy, which treats scars and makes them virtually unnoticeable. It involves dispersing the force applied to scars considered difficult to treat, such as keloids. Efforts are also being made to help patients who have suffered psychological damage as a result of their scars by teaching them a special makeup method.
Long COVID is a condition in which symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive dysfunction and hair loss continue after infection has passed. A Japanese researcher who studied the cause published a paper confirming that SARS-Cov-2 infects the brain. It says symptoms vary according to the area of the brain that is infected. Separately, a Japanese national medical institution has developed a blood test to predict who could get severe COVID-19.
A cancer treatment called photoimmunotherapy involves injecting patients with an agent, then exposing their tumors to near infrared light. It was developed by a Japanese researcher who works at the US National Institutes of Health. Japan became the first country to use it on a patient in 2021. The agent that's injected contains cancer-specific antibodies, to which special chemicals are attached. After the antibodies bind to cancer, near infrared light is applied, killing the cancer cells.
In June 2021, aducanumab, the first drug to target the cause of Alzheimer's disease, was approved in the US, making headlines worldwide. We look at the results of clinical trials involving over 3,000 participants from 20 countries, differences between the drug and conventional treatments, and the drug's limitations. We also focus on a preceding condition called mild cognitive impairment, or MCI. Japanese researchers developed a way to reverse cognitive decline in those with MCI, and a test to see whether someone is developing it.
The World Health Organization estimates that 1.9 billion people worldwide are overweight or obese. Obesity occurs due to white fat cells, which store lipids. A different type -- brown fat cells -- have been found to actually burn fat. We look at their mechanism and how to overcome obesity with a Japanese researcher whose discovery provided the basis for global fat cell research.
Stroke is the world's second-leading cause of death. Survivors may suffer brain damage that causes severe impairments in motor, language or other abilities. Japanese doctors have spent years developing a treatment that regenerates the brain using the patient's own cells. Clinical trials are underway. A participant who had complete paralysis on one side of her body can now walk. The treatment takes stem cells from the patient's bone marrow and injects it directly into the brain.
Cell tubes, made entirely from a patient's own cells, are just as elastic as blood vessels but much stronger. Skin cells cultured into lumps are skewered on needles on a base, similar to a Kenzan, a tool used in Japanese flower arrangements, and formed into a tube. The technique, called the Kenzan Method, was made possible by a 3D bioprinter. A clinical trial is underway in Japan to transplant these tubes into humans in place of blood vessels. Studies are being done to apply them to nerves and organs.
A new radiotherapy using boron and neutrons is now available in Japan for head and neck cancer that has recurred despite all types of conventional treatment. It's being offered at a private medical facility for the first time in the world. A patient who was told removing part of his throat, including his vocal cords, was the only solution had the therapy, and his cancer disappeared a year later. We look at the therapy's mechanism and side effects and compare it with other radiotherapies.
Scientists have known that osteoporosis is caused by the dysfunctioning of cells inside the bones but have never been able to observe the cells in a living state. In a world first, a Japanese researcher successfully captured images of the cells dissolving bones and the different cells communicating with each other. A closer look revealed the culprit behind bone diseases. We also introduce food substances and exercises that can lower the risk of osteoporosis.
A man with pain in his arm had surgery twice, but it worsened to the point where he had to take 50 pills a day. After 6 months of treatment by a Japanese anesthesiologist who is also a chronic-pain expert, his pain almost disappeared, and he no longer needed medication. The doctor says chronic pain is caused by abnormalities in 2 functions of the brain -- the pain-suppressing system and the reward system. We explain the mechanism and the secret to treating the condition.
Sleep is said to be the biggest black box of modern science. The International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine in Japan is known for its global contributions to uncovering the mysteries of sleep. It developed a device that can be used at home to easily measure brain waves during sleep and analyze sleep quality. Research has revealed the importance of REM sleep, during which the brain becomes highly active, and found a lack of it is associated with a higher risk of dementia and obesity.
A new technology can capture clear images of tiny blood vessels using light and ultrasound. This will enable better treatments, such as reconstructive surgery for patients who have had a part of their head, neck or breast removed due to cancer. Doctors can safely cut and transplant skin flaps containing blood vessels from a different area of the body, decreasing the burden on patients. The technology can also visualize transparent, thin lymph vessels, and improve the treatment of lymphedema.
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder for which there is no cure. We focus on a hospital that controls its symptoms to raise patients' quality of life. It is developing a system to remotely diagnose patients who find it difficult to visit the hospital because of their symptoms. The plan is to collect 3D data on patients' movements to aid AI in diagnosing the disorder. The hospital has also developed a way to diagnose Parkinson's disease by analyzing sebum.
Kampo is a Japanese traditional medicine that is based on information contained in an ancient Chinese classic. A Kampo formulation has numerous medicinal properties and is effective for many symptoms. This makes Kampo suitable for treating long COVID, which has various symptoms. We look at how Kampo formulations are prescribed, through 1 patient who was cured. We also introduce the latest scientific findings on how Kampo can prevent depressive symptoms, and how it can prevent coronavirus infection itself.
It is impossible even for surgeons to see the inside of the beating heart in detail with the naked eye. Japanese doctors, mechanical engineers and mathematicians cooperated to develop the heart simulator to reproduce each patient's heart. The simulator analyzes the movements of the heart's molecules, numbering 1 billion x 1 billion, to visualize the heart in 3D. It can also predict postoperative conditions. Clinical trials started in 2022 to save the lives of infants who have heart defects.
An innovative surgical training model has been developed called the bionic humanoid, containing certain artificial tissues with lifelike textures. The eye surgery model recreates a part of a membrane that's just 3 micrometers thick. Surgeons can practice a difficult surgery that involves peeling it away. The brain surgery model replicates complex structures within the skull to help surgeons practice removing tumors through the nostrils. The models could transform training for novice doctors.
We look at the latest in regenerative medicine for treating knee problems. Osteoarthritis happens when the meniscus and cartilage wear out. Researchers aim to repair meniscal damage with autologous synovial stem cell transplants. Ligament tears, an injury common among athletes, are also usually treated with transplants using the patient's own tendons or artificial ligaments. A bovine tendon has successfully been transplanted into a sheep, and a clinical trial will soon begin for use in humans.
New preventive drugs for migraines were approved in Japan in 2021. The drugs contain antibodies that target a substance that plays a key role in migraines. In a clinical trial, around 70% of patients had a 50% drop in headache frequency. Separately, an item essential to patients called a headache diary has been developed into a smartphone app by a Japanese company. Their entries are shared with their doctors, making consultations smoother and more efficient.
Vitamin C can be made by most animals, but not humans. However, researchers are learning that a lack of the nutrient leads to decreased muscle and bone fractures. Also, it is believed that the higher the vitamin C levels in the blood of the brain, the less likely dementia is to develop, and this year, a Japanese researcher identified a protein that transports vitamin C to the brain. Another experiment has confirmed that a lack of vitamin C leads to inflammation in the liver and other organs.
A virtual reality device developed by a Japanese startup is transforming rehabilitation. Patients wear the device and play games that require them to move their upper bodies. Facilities that have introduced the device have seen significant improvement in stroke and other patients. There have also been reports that say combining VR with therapy has improved symptoms in depression patients. The mechanism behind VR's effects is unknown, but we look at its potential to improve medicine.
A Japanese university developed an image-diagnosis support system using artificial intelligence by giving it 500,000 eye images. The system reduced the time needed for diagnoses to a third and helped with early detection of glaucoma and other diseases that can cause blindness if left untreated. Separately, a hospital that does about 8,000 eye surgeries annually has developed an AI system to prevent errors. We report on how AI is helping amid an increase in eye diseases as the population ages.
A nursing home that has tested 150 types of digital care devices installed a sheet-type sensor that measures residents' state of sleep and allows caregivers to check on them remotely. The sensor has led to fewer nighttime visits by caregivers and better sleep in over half of the residents. Another facility uses a sheet-type odor sensor that detects excretions, enabling immediate diaper-changes. Dramatic improvements were seen in the residents' sleep and appetite and caregivers' workload.
In Japan, researchers have found that inactive, underweight people are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A mouse experiment showed that just one day of no exercise results in a higher blood glucose level. Researchers have also confirmed that after exercise, the muscles release a substance that suppresses colon cancer. We introduce the latest findings on the relationship between the muscles and disease.
Japan's first surgical robot was developed two years ago. As of 2022, it won approval for use in cancers of the prostate, stomach, colon and uterus. We examine how the robot is used in surgeries and interview the developers about why the device was necessary. We also look at how the robot is being used to operate remotely and to train novice doctors, thereby changing the future of surgery.
A new drug jointly developed by Japanese and UK pharmaceutical companies targets HER2-positive breast cancers. It consists of a powerful chemotherapy drug linked to an antibody. In a clinical study, cancer shrank or disappeared in 60 percent of subjects. We also introduce care for patients struggling with changes in appearance due to treatment, and a cheerdance team made up of cancer survivors. The program looks at not just treatment, but ways to cope with the disease.
New Alzheimer's disease drugs have been developed in recent years. The key is to start treatment before dementia begins, in the stage of mild cognitive impairment, or MCI. But detecting MCI is time-consuming and difficult because there is no clear benchmark for diagnosing it. New devices have been developed for that purpose: a device to measure brain waves and a helmet-type PET scanner. We report on how this latest technology is helping with the battle against dementia.
Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy (EAT) is a Japanese treatment for chronic inflammation that involves rubbing the upper throat with a chemical-soaked cotton swab. EAT is gaining attention for its potential efficacy against long COVID and has been mentioned in the scientific journal Nature. Doctors are also using it on conditions with unknown causes after noticing inflammation in many patients' throats. Our report provides the latest information on EAT.
Japanese doctors are leading research on dizziness, which can interfere with daily life and cause long-term suffering. The Vertigo/Dizziness Center at Nara Medical University suggests a week-long stay for comprehensive testing to identify the cause and offer effective treatment. Even if there is no known cure, rehabilitation can help, allowing patients to return to work in some cases. We report on the latest dizziness treatments.
Conventional radiotherapy commonly uses X-rays, which have limited reach and can harm surrounding normal cells. Heavy ion radiotherapy, a promising alternative, uses heavy ion beams to effectively treat deep-seated cancers such as those of the pancreas and liver. Japan's leading facility for the therapy attracts trainees worldwide. We highlight the latest research on heavy ion radiotherapy, featuring a case study of pancreatic cancer which has been in remission for eight years.
Studies are revealing that some strains of bacteria in our mouths could contribute to heart and brain diseases, and even dementia. A researcher specializing in oral bacteria has developed a device to eliminate harmful bacteria that cannot be removed by brushing alone. Stay informed on the latest research on oral bacteria, which greatly impact overall health. Additionally, learn relaxation techniques through the traditional Japanese performing art of Noh.
Japanese researchers are making groundbreaking discoveries on the mechanisms of aging and working to apply them. As we age, senescent cells, or aged cells that have stopped dividing, accumulate, causing inflammation that can damage blood vessels and organs. Animal experiments have shown that removing these cells improves kidney function and reduces arteriosclerosis. They have led to the identification of a drug and development of a vaccine to eliminate the cells.
Natto is a traditional Japanese fermented food with a unique smell and stickiness. In 2020, the National Cancer Center announced that high consumption of natto lowers mortality risk. Natto not only activates the immune system, but also contains a significant amount of vitamin K2, which can suppress brain inflammation, while the substance responsible for its stickiness lowers blood sugar levels. We report the latest findings on the health benefits of natto, which is drawing attention worldwide.
Lumbar disc hernias can be alleviated with conservative treatments such as painkillers in around 80% of cases, but for the remaining 20%, surgery was the only way to control the pain. However, in 2018, Japan approved a new drug, administered via a single injection, marking a breakthrough for patients seeking alternatives. The drug's development and approval in Japan took around 50 years, and it is now awaiting approval in the United States. We bring you the latest on the therapy.q
Heart failure, which is rising globally, has no cure. A type of medication gaining attention for the ability to slow down its progress is SGLT2 inhibitors, which treat diabetes by acting on the kidneys. When the kidneys are burdened, the heart attempts to compensate, but this medication gives the kidneys a rest, reducing the heart's workload. Additionally, a sensor is being developed to measure the appropriate exercise level for each patient. We provide the latest updates on heart failure treatment.
Dr. Chin Takaaki is a pioneer in Japan for using robots in the rehabilitation of chronic spinal cord injury patients. Even when patients regained walking ability in the hospital, many struggled to maintain it and would go back to using wheelchairs after returning home. Chin's team has enabled patients to keep walking without crutches by using two types of robotic devices. It has also effectively trained children with robotic hands, ensuring progress with unique methods.
A depression treatment called rTMS, which uses magnetic fields to stimulate the brain, is showing promise. When it was administered to patients who didn't respond to antidepressants, about half showed improvement. Research is underway on its potential to prevent the recurrence of depression. Additionally, the link between depression, obesity and lifestyle-related diseases is becoming clearer. We show a case in which introducing nutritional guidance has led to symptom relief.
Ultrasound is emerging as an effective treatment for pancreatic cancer. HIFU uses focused heat to target and destroy cancer cells, and there is minimal harm to the body. We report on its potential.
Japanese researchers have uncovered the mechanism behind vitamin D's bone-strengthening effects. Its potential impact on cancer is also becoming apparent. We explore the power of Vitamin D.
Interval Walking Training, developed in Japan, is attracting global attention. The latest scientific findings show that alternating between fast walking and slow walking promotes health.
Detecting vulnerable plaques is now possible using the latest intravascular imaging technology. We focus on how this can help with early detection of heart disease and prevention of its recurrence.
The five-year survival rate for lung cancer is increasing. Tests can now identify gene mutations, enabling treatment with targeted drugs. We share the latest developments in lung cancer treatment.
Fascia is a membrane-like tissue beneath the skin enveloping internal organs. We introduce the latest treatment for shoulder stiffness and lower-back pain utilizing the characteristics of fascia.
New research results have revealed that resetting a disrupted body clock can improve sleep. We introduce a hospital that offers clock-resetting treatments and share dietary tips for better sleep.
iPS cells are being used to treat eye diseases to address donor shortages. We explore advancements made in Japan, such as the transplantation of iPS cell-derived corneal cells and retinal sheets.
In Japan, researchers are gathering scientific evidence on the effects of acupuncture and moxibustion. We examine how they improve stroke aftereffects, atopic dermatitis and other issues.
While immune checkpoint inhibitors can improve cancer survival rates, they only work in about 20 to 30% of patients. We interview Japanese researchers who are trying to overcome this challenge.
High blood pressure can cause serious diseases. Long-term studies in Japan reveal the importance of tracking sleep-time blood pressure and fluctuations. We share tips for controlling blood pressure.
Japanese research shows that losing three percent of body weight in three months can reduce disease risk. Learn weight loss tips from a doctor who has helped over 3,000 people at her obesity clinic.
Hydrogen gas inhalation is proving to be a potential game-changer in emergency medicine. It improves survival rates and reduces severe aftereffects that can occur after the heart restarts.
Nasal congestion could be a sign of sinusitis, which may lead to ear infections or even blindness. Japan's top nasal surgery hospital uses advanced equipment to perform sinus surgeries safely.
Recent data show constipation can lead to life-threatening conditions like stroke and chronic kidney disease. We explore the risks of self-diagnosing and a new device for managing constipation.
Muse cells, discovered by a Japanese researcher, are found in the human body and have the unique ability to repair tissues. We examine their potential in treating intractable diseases.
