Stylized map of Japan symbolizing cancer treatment advancements.

Skin Cancer Alert: Unveiling the Truth About Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Treatment in Japan

Rhea Morgan in Health & Wellness June 2025 • 4 min read.

"A deep dive into the challenges, treatment gaps, and future hopes for advanced non-melanoma skin cancer patients in Japan."

For years, melanoma has dominated the spotlight in skin cancer research and treatment, overshadowing other forms of skin cancer that, while less aggressive, still pose significant health challenges. Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD), and cutaneous angiosarcoma (CAS), are increasingly prevalent, particularly in aging populations.

In Japan, a recent nationwide survey has shed light on the state of NMSC treatment, revealing critical gaps and potential paths forward. This survey, conducted across dermatology departments in Japan, highlights the challenges faced by patients with advanced NMSCs and underscores the urgent need for innovative treatment strategies.

This article dives deep into the survey's findings, exploring the current treatment landscape, the unmet needs of NMSC patients, and the promising developments on the horizon. By understanding the realities of NMSC treatment in Japan, we can advocate for better care and support for those affected by these often-overlooked cancers.

The Reality of Advanced NMSC in Japan: Key Findings

Stylized map of Japan symbolizing cancer treatment advancements.

The survey, which reached 668 certified dermatology training facilities across Japan, paints a concerning picture. Researchers found that the number of patients with advanced NMSCs is significant, with an estimated 1255.6 cases annually. This figure underscores the prevalence of these cancers and the substantial burden they place on the healthcare system.

Here's a breakdown of the key findings:

Prevalence: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common NMSC, followed by extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD), other skin carcinomas, and cutaneous angiosarcoma (CAS).
Limited Treatment Options: Current treatments for advanced NMSCs primarily involve chemotherapy, which often has significant side effects and limited effectiveness.
Uneven Distribution of Care: Advanced NMSC cases are concentrated in university hospitals and cancer centers, suggesting that patients in rural areas may face challenges accessing specialized care.
Need for New Drugs: There's a clear consensus among dermatologists that new and more effective treatments are desperately needed for advanced NMSCs.

These findings highlight the urgent need for increased research and development of novel therapies for NMSCs. The survey also underscores the importance of raising awareness about these cancers and ensuring that patients have access to the best possible care, regardless of their location.

Looking Ahead: Promising Developments and Future Directions

Despite the challenges, there's reason for hope. The survey revealed that dermatologists in Japan are optimistic about the potential of new treatments, particularly EGFR inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors, which have shown promise in treating other cancers, including head and neck SCC. For EMPD, researchers are exploring the potential of HER2 inhibitors, while for CAS, immune checkpoint inhibitors are generating excitement.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2018.10.004, Alternate LINK

Title: Nation-Wide Survey Of Advanced Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers Treated At Dermatology Departments In Japan

Subject: Dermatology

Journal: Journal of Dermatological Science

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Authors: Yasuhiro Fujisawa, Takeru Funakoshi, Yoshiyuki Nakamura, Maki Ishii, Jun Asai, Takatoshi Shimauchi, Kazuyasu Fujii, Manabu Fujimoto, Norito Katoh, Hironobu Ihn

Published: 2018-12-01

Everything You Need To Know

What is the main focus of the article?

The main focus is on Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), specifically Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD), and cutaneous angiosarcoma (CAS). These cancers are less aggressive than melanoma but still present significant health challenges, especially in aging populations. The article emphasizes the urgent need for advanced treatments for these cancers in Japan, highlighting their prevalence and the limitations of current treatments.

How prevalent are Non-melanoma skin cancers in Japan?

The survey revealed that the number of patients with advanced NMSCs is significant, with an estimated 1255.6 cases annually in Japan. This high number underscores the prevalence of these cancers and the substantial burden they place on the healthcare system. The survey's findings highlight the urgent need for increased research and development of novel therapies for NMSCs, and also emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about these cancers.

What are the current treatment options for advanced Non-melanoma skin cancers?

The current treatment landscape primarily relies on chemotherapy for advanced NMSCs, which often has significant side effects and limited effectiveness. The survey revealed that the current treatment options are insufficient. This lack of effective treatments is a major concern for dermatologists in Japan and highlights the need for new, more effective therapies.

Are there any issues with how the care is being distributed for these cancers?

The survey indicates that advanced NMSC cases are concentrated in university hospitals and cancer centers. This uneven distribution suggests that patients in rural areas may face challenges in accessing specialized care. This geographic disparity in care access can impact patient outcomes and emphasizes the need for strategies to ensure equitable access to treatment.

What are the promising developments in treating these cancers?

The survey indicates that dermatologists in Japan are optimistic about the potential of new treatments, particularly EGFR inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors. For EMPD, HER2 inhibitors are being explored, and for CAS, immune checkpoint inhibitors are generating excitement. These new treatments offer a promising outlook for improved outcomes for patients with advanced NMSCs, representing a significant step forward in cancer care.