Comprehensive Support for Pharmacists Preparing for Cancer Qualification Exams
On March 9, 2026, Igaku Shoin Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Bunkyo, Tokyo, President: Toshin Kanbara) will release the book 'Cancer Qualification Exam Prep for Pharmacists [with Web Supplement]', edited by Tomotaka Yoshimura and Koichi Matsuo. This publication aims to support pharmacists in their preparation for the increasingly important cancer qualification exams.
Expanding Role of Pharmacists in Oncology
Pharmacists are now required not only to have broad general knowledge but also to demonstrate specialized expertise in specific areas. In oncology, their responsibilities continue to grow, ranging from supporting the proper use of anticancer drugs to managing side effects and optimizing treatments through prescription recommendations. As treatments become more sophisticated and complex, there is a rising demand for higher levels of pharmaceutical judgment.
In response to this need, a specialized certification system for oncology pharmacists has been established, necessitating the passing of an exam that evaluates a wide range of knowledge directly related to clinical practice, including proper use of anticancer drugs, supportive therapies, and treatment guidelines.
A Response to the Needs of Candidates
This new textbook was developed in response to requests from those preparing for the certification exam, indicating the need for targeted preparatory resources. The book includes basic knowledge questions about oncology as well as case studies reflective of clinical settings, supplemented by past exam questions from the national pharmacy examination to enhance practical thinking skills. The compilation of questions was supported by practicing pharmacists who are certified oncology specialists and guide pharmacists.
Key Features of the Book
1.
Organized Practice Questions: The exercise questions are categorized by oncology field, making it easier to consolidate knowledge and identify weaknesses.
2.
Difficulty Levels: Each question displays its level of difficulty in three tiers, and the explanations include references to underlying guidelines and attached documentation.
3.
Highlighted Key Points: At the end of each section, essential points are summarized for quick review.
4.
Case Studies: Inclusion of case studies further strengthens practical thinking skills vital for pharmacists.
5.
Web Supplement: The supplementary web access allows candidates to practice questions anytime via smartphones or computers, providing flexibility in study habits.
Structured Table of Contents
The book is structured to cover various critical areas of oncology pharmacotherapy:
- - Chapter 1: Foundations of Cancer
- Epidemiology and Diagnosis of Cancer
- Management of Regimens and Exposure
- - Chapter 2: Overview of Anticancer Drugs
- Cytotoxic Anticancer Agents
- Molecular Targeted Therapy (Small Molecules & Antibodies)
- Hormonal Therapies
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
- Immunomodulators
- - Chapter 3: Pharmacotherapy by Cancer Type
- Breast, Lung, Gastric, Esophageal, Colorectal Cancers, etc.
- - Chapter 4: Supportive Therapies & Side Effect Management
- Managing Bone Marrow Suppression, Gastrointestinal Symptoms, and More
- - Chapter 5: Drug Therapy in Palliative Care
- Pain Management and Analgesics
- - Chapter 6: Comprehensive Exercises
- Case Study Problems and Past National Exam Questions
Additional Information
- - Publication Details: The book is in B5 format with 344 pages and retails at 5,940 yen (including taxes).
- - ISBN: 978-4-260-06532-0
For further details, including sample content, visit
Igaku Shoin's website.
About Igaku Shoin Co., Ltd.
Founded in 1944, Igaku Shoin has been dedicated to providing critical medical and healthcare information to promote the development of medicine and social welfare. The company publishes a wide array of medical texts and journals and continues to innovate with digital content, online courses, and various media tailored to the needs of healthcare professionals and students.