my comments - i find this an interesting article because for three
reasons.  1. how populated the country is.  2. their culture cares about
the other person.  3. they are an advanced society for the most part.

~ curtis
==================

About 80 percent of cancer patients and their families expressed
dissatisfaction with the level of treatment they're getting, a recent
survey by the University of Tokyo shows.
The survey, led by James Masaakira Kondo, an associate professor of
medical policy at the university, also found that 93 percent of the
1,031 respondents believe that the government's medical policies do not
reflect their opinions.
Cancer is a leading cause of death among Japanese. Critics say the
findings are expected to press the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry to
review its existing cancer treatment policies.
Only 1 percent of respondents said they were satisfied with the level of
medical treatment.
Thirty-six percent said they were "dissatisfied" and 44 percent were
"somewhat dissatisfied," while 19 percent were "somewhat satisfied."
Asked if medical policies reflect patients' opinions, 29 percent said
they "do not reflect at all," 64 percent said "generally do not
reflect," and 7 percent "generally reflect." None said they "reflect
well."
Many respondents complained about problems associated with the medical
system, including how some cancer drugs approved in the United States
and Europe are not covered by health insurance in Japan.
Also drawing complaints was the lack of counselors to discuss medical or
mental issues.
A number of the respondents said they want the government to disclose
information on the quality of medical care and on cancer treatments,
with 99 percent saying that Japan needs a comprehensive cancer center.
The survey showed that 130 of the respondents have paid 1.5 million yen
to 3 million yen for treatment to make up the biggest single group.
There were 84 people paid 5 million yen.
About 30 respondents said they have visited three or more hospitals, but
some have gone to 10 or more.
The health ministry last year launched its third 10-year program
promoting prevention, treatment and research of cancer.
A ministry panel proposed last month that regional hospitals should be
strengthened to make cancer treatment available across the country.
The Japan Times: May 29, 2005

knowledge is power - growing old is mandatory - growing wise is optional    
"Many more men die with prostate cancer than of it. Growing old is
invariably fatal. Prostate cancer is only sometimes so."
http://community.webtv.net/PALMER_ENT/doc