On December 4th, 2023, the Palsystem Cooperative Federation, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, held an award ceremony for the "Hohoemi Fund" at the headquarters of the Japan Anti-Cancer Association in Chuo, Tokyo. The fund, established in 2003 to combat breast cancer fatalities, received a donation of 200,000 yen, reflecting the collective efforts of over 3,100 participants who made health maintenance declarations during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
The purpose of the Hohoemi Fund is to provide support to cancer patients, their families, and medical practitioners, while spreading accurate information about cancer prevention and treatment. The fund plays a critical role in facilitating early detection of breast cancer through screening, supporting free telephone consultations, training specialists, and researching new screening methods. To ensure no one is left behind, the initiative also provides free cancer screening coupons to low-income households, promoting breast cancer awareness for all.
During the award ceremony, Kyoshi Aoki, representative director of Palsystem, presented a certificate of the donation to Ichiro Ishida, the executive director of the Japan Anti-Cancer Association. Aoki expressed his satisfaction with the participation of 3,100 users in actions that promote awareness of breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of considering personal health amidst the ongoing struggle against cancer. He urged the Association to utilize the funds effectively in efforts to alleviate the suffering of cancer patients.
Ishida expressed gratitude for the cooperation in spreading accurate information about cancer. He highlighted the importance of being informed, particularly in the event of a diagnosis, noting the challenges faced by individuals who must balance work and treatment. He emphasized the Association’s commitment to collaborating with businesses and leveraging donations to enhance awareness campaigns.
The donation amount awarded was directly linked to the 3,100 health maintenance declarations made by Palsystem users, who completed posts focusing on breast cancer prevention and treatment awareness. Participants were encouraged to share their actions to promote their health, which included regular breast checks and cancer screenings, with the aim of contributing to the maximum donation limit of 200,000 yen.
The action declarations included three main activities: collecting cancer-related information, performing breast self-checks, and attending cancer screenings. Responses showed that around 60% of participants had been consistently engaged in these activities, indicating a solid understanding of breast cancer awareness.
Among the various activities shared, nearly half of the participants declared their intention to engage in physical exercises such as walking, sports, yoga, and stretching to maintain their health. Additionally, 20% emphasized the importance of a balanced diet, incorporating Palsystem products into their meals. Other ideas for breast cancer prevention and maintaining overall health included regular screenings, self-checks, and leading a lifestyle that prioritizes stress management and a positive mindset.
The action declarations were collected through a special website set up for the initiative, which aligns with the Palsystem Group’s annual call for "cancer awareness actions" during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This campaign aims to educate the public about breast cancer, which affects one in nine Japanese women, by encouraging vigilance regarding changes and issues with breast health.
The site provided guidance on how to perform breast checks during bathing and offered insights into the different types of ultrasound and mammography screenings, along with their respective advantages and disadvantages, to promote breast awareness and health maintenance.
As the Palsystem Group moves forward, it aims to foster understanding between those living with illness and healthy individuals, ultimately promoting a community where everyone can lead fulfilling lives.
Palsystem Cooperative Federation
Location: 2-2-6 Okubo, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Chairman: Atsuyuki Shibusawa
Revenue: 4.21 billion yen (as of March 2025)
Number of Employees: 68
Total Number of Policies: 522,000
Equity: 2 billion yen (as of March 2025)
HP:
Palsystem Kyosai
The year 2025 will mark the International Year of Cooperatives.