Division of Epidemiology

Our Research

In the Division of Epidemiology, we are engaged in studies aimed at elucidating risk and preventive factors of cancer to facilitate the development of preventive measures against this disease.

Epidemiology is a study area that investigates the frequency and distribution of diseases within specific human populations and reveals their determinants. Utilizing several large-scale epidemiological studies, including the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study (linked to an external website for NCC), the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study for the Next Generation (linked to an external website for NCC), and the National Cancer Center Japan-Screening Cohort Study (linked to an external website for NCC), we analyze various lifestyle factors and biological specimens such as blood and urine and examine their associations with cancer risk.

For risk and preventive factors identified by epidemiological study, it is crucial to bridge the findings to effective strategies for cancer prevention applicable to the daily lives of citizens. As the development of such preventive measures is primarily conducted by the Division of Prevention, we advance our research through a seamless collaboration.

Epidemiological study, being an interdisciplinary field, also necessitates various collaboration among researchers with diverse backgrounds. In our division, professionals extend beyond medical practitioners, including physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, to encompass experts in fields of science and technology, exemplified by nutrition, analytical chemistry, molecular biology, and computer science. If you possess an interest in epidemiological study, we warmly welcome you to join us in our projects. 

Inquiry (for those interested in epidemiological study)

We actively seek individuals interested in collaborative opportunities to join our team. Postdoctoral researchers, visiting research fellows, partnering graduate school students, and trainees who wish to contribute our projects are encouraged to contact our division chief, Dr. Iwasaki, at moiwasak@ncc.go.jp. Additionally, we also extend our welcome to those with an interest in research assistant roles. Research assistants are responsible for data management in epidemiological studies, IT infrastructure management covering databases and networks, and management of biological specimens such as blood and urine.