Exploring the Evolution of Self-Care and Health Awareness in Japan Over Two Decades

20 Years of Health and Self-Care Evolution: A Comprehensive Study

As Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare celebrates its 20th anniversary in April 2026, the company has taken significant steps to assess how people’s awareness of health and self-care has evolved over the last two decades. Conducted in September 2026, the study surveyed 600 men and women aged between 20 to 70 across Japan. The findings reveal startling trends regarding the prevalence of health issues and the concept of self-care in modern society.

A Rise in Health Issues

The first and perhaps the most alarming finding is that approximately 80% of modern individuals acknowledge experiencing some form of health issue, indicating that we are living in an age characterized by significant bodily discomfort. Comparing the current situation with that of 20 years ago, over 60% of respondents reported an increase in not only the variety of ailments felt but also in their frequency.

Among the respondents aged 30 and older, the data suggests a noticeable trend: as technology has evolved, so have the associated strains on our bodies. For instance, ailments such as eye strain, shoulder and neck pain, which were less frequently reported two decades ago, have surged in the present age.
According to the results, the prevalence of symptoms like eye fatigue rose by 25.8 percentage points and shoulder discomfort by 12.7 percentage points, reflecting our increasingly screen-dominated lifestyles.

The Emergence of 'Self-Care Cancellation'

The research indicates a troubling trend known as 'Self-Care Cancellation', abbreviated to 'Self-Cam'. This term encompasses the phenomenon where individuals neglect to address their discomfort, choosing to forgo self-care until their issues significantly worsen. Interestingly, while 30-40% of participants resort to proactive care, a stark 50% confess to waiting until their condition impacts daily life before taking action. This delay is particularly prevalent among those experiencing communication fatigue and cognitive exhaustion.

Understanding Modern Ailments

The survey also categorizes contemporary health issues into six distinct types, all of which prominently feature the youth demographic. As defined by different types of fatigue—such as information fatigue, communication fatigue, and digital fatigue—the survey illustrates a worrying trend, especially in the 20s age group, where participants often reported multiple types of ailments.
Additionally, excessive use of digital devices, with the majority of youths spending extensive hours on smartphones or computers, has been flagged as a leading contributor to fatigue and discomfort.

The Ripple Effects of Negligence

Perhaps the most concerning finding is how this 'Self-Cam' attitude can have cascading effects on individuals' daily lives. About 66.7% of participants noted that neglecting their health-related actions led to feelings of persistent fatigue and poor sleep quality, creating a detrimental cycle of discomfort.
Recognizing the growing concern of 'winter lethargy' as seasons change, which affects approximately 64.8% of individuals, the survey emphasizes the need for proactive health measures, especially during seasonal shifts.

Tips for Navigating the 'Great Discomfort Era'

Dr. Toshio Akitsu, director of Akitsu Clinic, encourages individuals to adopt simple self-care practices to combat the prevalent health issues:
1. Recognize Personal Triggers: Maintaining a diary recording one’s health patterns can help individuals identify their specific irritants and establish personalized care regimens.
2. Utilize Favors: Having activities or items that boost mood, such as a favorite song or hobby, serves as emotional refuge during tough times.
3. Embrace Breaks: Action pauses play a crucial role in recharge; introducing consistent breaks during work can lead to improved productivity and well-being.

As Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare looks toward the future, they aim to foster a culture of conscious self-care and health awareness. The 20th anniversary is an opportunity not just to reflect but also to cultivate a proactive approach towards personal health—empowering individuals to embrace their well-being in meaningful ways.