J.Jpn. Surg. Soc.. 127(5): 510-515, 2026

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Feature topic

WORKPLACE SUSTAINABILITY FOR BREAST SURGEONS: CURRENT PERSPECTIVES AND CHALLENGES

Breast cancer treatment has rapidly evolved into highly specialized multidisciplinary care. Accordingly, the role of breast surgeons has expanded from surgery-centered practice to long-term comprehensive treatment management. At the same time, work-style reform and promotion of diversity have highlighted the importance of improving the working environment for breast surgeons. In Japan, the proportion of female physicians in breast surgery has markedly increased, particularly among younger generations, making work–life balance during pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare a critical issue. Despite improvements in maternity leave and return-to-work support systems, several challenges remain, including regional disparities in specialist distribution, shortages of mid-career physicians, and difficulties in maintaining updated knowledge during leave periods. Furthermore, advances in systemic therapies have increased the complexity of breast cancer care. However, the shortage of breast oncology specialists in Japan has forced many breast surgeons to continue managing systemic therapy.
To establish a sustainable breast cancer care system, flexible working styles, task shifting, online educational support, and diversified career pathways should be promoted. Collaboration among hospitals, academic societies, and national policymakers will be essential to redesign specialist training systems and optimize both centralization and equalization of breast cancer care.

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