It is a great honor to serve as President of the Japanese Society of Medical Oncology (JSMO). I accept this responsibility with deep respect for the achievements of my predecessors and with sincere appreciation for the dedication of our members, whose collective efforts have shaped JSMO into a leading academic society in oncology.

Since its founding, JSMO has played a central role in advancing cancer medicine in Japan—promoting the development of medical oncology, cultivating highly trained specialists, and fostering international collaboration. Over the past two decades, cancer systemic therapy has progressed at an extraordinary pace. Molecularly targeted therapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and genome medicine have transformed the landscape of oncology and expanded the possibilities for patient care.

At the same time, important challenges remain. Shortage of medical healthcare professionals, the persistent issues of drug lag and drug loss, and disparities in access to care across regions continue to affect cancer treatment in Japan. Addressing these challenges while advancing the next generation of oncology is an important mission for our society.

As President, I have chosen the theme:

“Bridging Organizations for Excellence.”

The future of oncology will be shaped not by a single discipline or institution, but by collaboration across many sectors. Academic societies, medical institutions, industry, government, and patient communities each bring unique strengths and perspectives. By connecting these strengths, we can create the foundation for meaningful progress in both research and patient care. JSMO must serve as a bridge that enables such collaboration.

To realize this vision, our society will focus on several key priorities.

First, we will further strengthen the board-certified medical oncologist system. Medical oncologists are the foundation of JSMO and play a vital role in ensuring the quality of cancer care throughout Japan. Our long-term goal is to establish a national framework of approximately 5,000 certified specialists led by JSMO medical oncologists, expanding from the current total of 1,825 as of April, 2025.

Second, we will actively identify and respond to the evolving needs of our members. By strengthening educational programs, expanding opportunities for professional development, and promoting international engagement, we aim to cultivate a vibrant academic community—particularly for the next generation of oncology professionals. At the same time, we will pursue initiatives to expand membership and support the sustainable growth of the society.

Third, JSMO will take a more proactive role in national cancer policy. As a professional organization representing oncology experts, we have a responsibility to provide scientifically grounded recommendations and to contribute to evidence-based cancer control strategies in Japan.

Fourth, we will strengthen JSMO’s global presence and pursue leadership within Asia. Japanese oncology is internationally recognized for its high standards of research and clinical practice. We will cultivate a network of globally active oncology leaders and promote greater participation in international collaborative research and guideline development.

Fifth, we will continue to build a society that is open and responsive to the public. Constructive engagement with patients, the dissemination of reliable medical information, and the promotion of mutual understanding between healthcare professionals and society are essential responsibilities of our organization.

Sixth, we will deepen collaboration with related academic organizations both in Japan and internationally. Cancer care is inherently multidisciplinary, and progress depends on strong partnerships across specialties and institutions.

Through these initiatives, JSMO will contribute not only to improving the quality of cancer care but also to advancing innovative research and the development of new therapies.

Progress in oncology has the power to transform the lives of patients and families. By working together across disciplines, institutions, and borders, we can continue to expand the possibilities of cancer medicine.

Together, let us build the bridges that will shape the future of oncology.

Japanese Society of Medical Oncology
7th President, Takayuki Yoshino

As of March 2026