Countermeasures and follow-up actions in response to information on thyroid cancer, which possibly provoked misunderstanding and unfounded rumour, issued by five former Japanese prime ministers.

Abstract

This study summarises the responses to information on thyroid cancer, which possibly provoked misunderstanding and unfounded rumour, described in a letter issued by five former Japanese Prime Ministers on 27 January, 2022. Fukushima Medical University (FMU) implemented countermeasures and follow-up in three phases in response to the letter. In Phase 1, FMU shared scientific facts on the relationship between radiation exposure and thyroid cancer, as well as the response of FMU towards those who read the letter and were concerned about the description. Furthermore, FMU organised lectures and workshops to facilitate peer support among medical and non-medical staff, which were publicised through a newspaper article. In Phase 2, the peer support programme targeting patients with thyroid cancer was launched. In Phase 3, FMU participated in a TV programme to explain the medical aspects of thyroid cancer and the importance of providing peer support to patients with cancer, featuring individuals with experiences as medical staff and survivors.