Roles and Issues of the Physicians' Practice System in the Application of Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance Program Applications for Asbestos Lung Cancer

Objective. In Japan, few cases of asbestos lung cancer, which is predicted to be more prevalent than mesothelioma, have been certified by the Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance Program. We suspect this to be due to the lack of asbestos exposure interviews. Study Design. A web-based survey was performed among physicians who conduct asbestos exposure-related interviews in their lung cancer practices to determine the current status of and challenges associated with their practice systems. Results. Regarding knowledge about asbestos, physicians are mainly aware of the details concerning direct exposure, and providing information to patients is a similar task. Patients with possible indirect exposure may therefore be difficult to diagnose. Conclusion. Doctors must study more about the health hazards of indirect exposure to asbestos, and a system of cooperation should be established with the consultation and support departments in hospitals.