#Japan #Johnson & Johnson #Tokyo #Inflammatory Bowel Disease #Dual Control

Johnson & Johnson's New Initiative for IBD Patients

In a landmark effort commencing this week, Johnson & Johnson has unveiled the "Dual Control" initiative, designed to assist individuals living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in balancing their medical treatment with professional responsibilities. This initiative coincides with Japan's National Work Health Week, aiming to raise awareness about work health among the public.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease is characterized by chronic inflammation in the intestines, and encompasses conditions such as Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease. Patients face cyclical periods of disease flare-ups and remission, making management challenging. Particularly concerning is the revelation from the iCREST-CD cohort study, which shows that one in four Crohn's Disease patients experiences work productivity hindrances, significantly higher than the general Japanese population rate of 20.1%.

Through this initiative, Johnson & Johnson aims to provide resources and support that empower IBD patients to maintain their treatment regimens while thriving in their academic and professional lives. Many patients often feel unsupported or lack confidence in their ability to juggle treatment with work, leading some to abandon their studies or careers. The recent findings highlight an urgent need for effective disease management strategies that not only address physical health but also contribute to better work-life balance.

Since developing the first treatment for Crohn’s Disease in Japan, Remicade®, in 2002, Johnson & Johnson has expanded its offerings to include various treatment options tailored to the diverse needs of IBD patients. These include Symponi®, a human anti-TNFα monoclonal antibody, and Stelara®, the first human anti-IL-12/23 monoclonal antibody available in Japan. By 2025, they plan to introduce Tremfya®, a novel dual-acting monoclonal antibody for IBD therapy, continuing their commitment to enhance the quality of care for patients.

Additionally, the company's efforts include the establishment of the “IBD Work Project” in 2019, which aims to support patients diagnosed with IBD in their workplace challenges. The new Dual Control initiative builds upon this foundation, consolidating existing knowledge and efforts into a comprehensive support system that fosters environments where patients can work and learn authentically while managing their health.

As part of the inaugural phase of the Dual Control program, Johnson & Johnson will utilize social media platforms to share supportive resources, along with personal stories from individuals who navigate work while living with IBD. They are also collaborating with the information portal “IBD Plus” to highlight medical professionals’ insights into balancing treatment with career commitments, showcasing success stories from around the country to inspire hope and confidence among IBD patients.

Through this comprehensive approach, Johnson & Johnson is committed to not only advancing medical treatment but also promoting a greater understanding of IBD in the workplace, encouraging a supportive community for individuals affected by this condition.

For more details on how patients can navigate their health and work responsibilities, visit the IBD Life project page.

About Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson believes that health is paramount. Their strength in healthcare innovation allows them to prevent, treat, and heal complex diseases, evolving treatments into smarter and less invasive solutions. With expertise in both Innovative Medicine and MedTech, they are dedicated to driving advancements across various healthcare sectors and making a substantial impact on global health.

In Japan, the Innovative Medicine division has been delivering numerous pharmaceuticals since its establishment in 1978, continuously focusing on unmet medical needs and ensuring that patients receive the best treatment options at the right time. For more information, please visit Johnson & Johnson's Innovative Medicine.