J.Jpn. Surg. Soc.. 126(6): 522-528, 2025

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Feature topic

CHOOSING BREAST SURGERY: BUILDING THE FUTURE THROUGH HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABLE HEALTHCARE

The incidence of breast cancer is increasing, and the role of breast surgeons is expanding accordingly. They provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis and surgery to systemic therapy and long-term survivorship support, working closely with patients throughout their journey. This specialty will become even more vital in the future. However, challenges such as the lengthy training period, regional disparities, aging mentors, and declining interest among young physicians have emerged. Breast surgery offers a unique career that integrates surgical skills with medical treatments and emphasizes leadership in multidisciplinary team care. Advances in imaging technologies, AI-assisted diagnostics, and personalized medicine are broadening its scope further. Nevertheless, heavy workloads and concerns about work–life balance continue to discourage young doctors. The demanding pathway to board certification underscores the need for flexible career support. Recruitment strategies should involve promoting role models, enhancing educational programs, reforming work environments, supporting parental needs, and encouraging research opportunities. Despite these challenges, young physicians find deep appeal in breast surgery’s blend of technical mastery and human connection. To sustain the future of this vital field, professional societies, hospitals, and training institutions must collaborate urgently to create supportive, hopeful environments for the next generation of breast surgeons.

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