午夜剧场

With the Human Genome Project, which analyzed 90% of DNA in 2000, the identification of causative genes for hereditary tumors has progressed. However, because the human body is formed through differentiation from a single fertilized egg, germline genetic information exists in all cells, and it is currently impossible to treat causative genes throughout the entire body. Therefore, for hereditary tumors with a high risk of developing cancer in specific organs, guidelines recommend lifelong visits to medical institutions for continuous screening tests for early detection, as well as the option of prophylactic organ removal before cancer develops.

I first encountered a patient with familial adenomatous polyposis when I was a graduate student, and for nearly 30 years since, I have been involved in nursing practice and research for individuals with hereditary tumors and their families. I still vividly remember how my heart was moved to take action after meeting people who passed away from cancer at a young age despite knowing they were prone to it but not utilizing that information, or those who died without ever knowing they carried a high-risk gene.

Removing organs due to hereditary breast, ovarian, or colorectal cancer has a significant impact on daily life and identity, and it is not a decision that can be made easily. However, as a healthcare professional, I feel a sense of regret when I encounter people who lose their lives at a young age. We only have one life. I always hope that people will utilize information to make their own choices about their lives.

While nurses cannot perform surgery or prescribe medication like doctors, we can provide accurate information about increasing risks to consider together, and offer support to help people live their lives to the fullest. It is not hard to imagine how many lives could be saved if nursing professionals—including nurses, public health nurses, and midwives—possessed the latest information regarding genetics and genomics.

We have entered an era where the identification of genes for various diseases, not just cancer, is progressing and treatment policies are undergoing major transformations. In the field of cardiovascular disease, the second leading cause of death in Japan, the identification of various genes is also advancing. In particular, a "heart failure pandemic" is predicted with a significant increase in elderly patients. To take measures before this occurs, we are in an era that requires the cultivation of nursing professionals who can better utilize genetic and genomic information to support the maintenance of health.