Tumor marker test

The role of tumor markers in the United States differs from that in Japan.

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In Japan, a variety of tumor markers have been developed and are widely utilized in daily clinical practice as important clues for the early detection of various types of cancer. In the U.S., however, with the sole exception of PSA (a prostate cancer marker), almost all other tumor markers are used strictly for post-discovery management. They are only measured after cancer has been detected through other means, and are used to verify treatment efficacy and monitor for signs of recurrence. The American healthcare and insurance system—where insurance companies act as powerful lobbyists—is built entirely from a cost-benefit perspective. Ordering expensive tumor markers using insurance when a patient is asymptomatic is not permitted. Because of this principle, local physicians feel strongly uncomfortable measuring tumor markers for screening purposes.

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The physicians at our center, who also have clinical experience in Japan, fully understand the utility of tumor markers as a screening tool. As part of our comprehensive medical check-up (ningen dock) options, we offer the measurement of five types of tumor markers: AFP (liver cancer), CEA (colorectal cancer), CA19-9 (pancreatic cancer), PSA (prostate cancer), and CA125 (ovarian cancer). If abnormal values are found as a result of these tests, we also handle subsequent specialized examinations, utilizing your health insurance whenever possible.