The Past and Present Status of Clinical Hyperthermia in Japan: a Survey in 2004 using a Questionnaire

Clinical research in hyperthermic oncology began in 1978, when the research group chaired by Prof. T. Sugahara, supported by a grant from the Ministry of Education, played an important part. Six years later, the first annual meeting of the Japanese Society of Hyperthermic Oncology (JSHO) was held in Kyoto, and the 23rd meeting was held in Nara in 2006. Over this period, the number of members as well as the number of scientific papers presented have decreased. However, new technologies such as immuno-stimulation, high temperature ablation, and mild hyperthermia have been introduced into clinics. The health insurance control committee of the JSHO conducted a survey on the clinical applications of hyperthermia. Data obtained through the use of questionnaires have been used to present the state of hyperthermic treatment in the major hospitals in Japan. An outline of the patients and diseases treated with hyperthermia, heating conditions including combination therapy, and clinical outcomes were summarized in this study. From the viewpoint of fiscal responsibility at each hospital, the difference between income and expenses for hyperthermic therapy is something which cannot be ignored. Further analysis of survey data and additional survey studies might be essential to resolve this problem.