Olympus CSR / Environmental Activities : 04 For Society (Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign)

Olympus Medical Systems Corporation supplies medical institutions with endoscopes and a variety of other medical equipment. In February 2007 it launched a new social contribution initiative known as the "BRAVE CIRCLE" campaign, with the goal of eradicating colorectal cancer. As the incidence of this type of cancer has risen in recent years, the aim of the campaign is to reduce the number of deaths by informing people in their forties and older about colorectal cancer, as well as the importance of undergoing checks for the disease.
Photograph on left: A talk show with participants in the BRAVE CIRCLE Walk　

Focus on Early Detection and Treatment

Background and Aims of Campaign

Rising Incidence, Low Detection Cancer Check Rates

Deaths from colorectal cancer in Japan have more than doubled over the past 20 years. Today it is the leading cause of cancer deaths among women. Based on current projections, colorectal cancer will be the number one type of cancer for both males and females in Japan by 2020. In almost all cases, colorectal cancer can be cured if it is detected and treated early. However, only about 18%^Note1 of the target group^Note2 in Japan have colorectal cancer checks (testing for occult blood), partly because there are few subjective symptoms in the early stages of the disease.

Helping to Improve Colorectal Cancer Examination Rates

Olympus Medical Systems Corporation contributes to improvements in the quality of life by supplying medical institutions with safe, reliable and highly efficient medical equipment, including endoscopes. In February 2007 it launched the "BRAVE CIRCLE" campaign^Note3 with the aim of preventing colorectal cancer fatalities by distributing accurate information about the disease. Through musical events and other activities, the campaign informs the target group of people aged 40 and older about colorectal cancer and the importance of medical checks.

Note1: Estimate based on the "Report on Regional Public Health and Health Services for the Aged", by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

Note2: The target group for colorectal cancer testing consists of males and females aged 40 and older

Note3: Website for the "BRAVE CIRCLE" colorectal cancer eradication campaign:

[WEB] http://www.bravecircle.net/ (Only in Japanese)