Japan Radiotherapy Market

Japan Radiotherapy Market Size and Share:

The Japan radiotherapy market size was valued at USD 444.37 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 719.47 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.28% from 2025-2033. Continual breakthroughs in treatment modalities, demographic trends emphasizing senior healthcare, policy measures promoting advanced medical care, rapid expansion of healthcare investments, and the growing public awareness regarding early interventions are impacting the Japan radiotherapy market share significantly.

The market in Japan is primarily driven by the advancements and innovations that enable more accurate and targeted radiotherapy. For example, on May 30, 2024, the National Institute for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) announced the successful generation of high-energy electron beams via laser irradiation, a breakthrough expected to improve radiation cancer treatment. This development uses microcapillary plates to produce efficient electron beams, which could reduce radiation exposure and eliminate the need for shielding. The innovation paves the way for low-cost, endoscopic radiation therapy with potential applications in cancer treatment. Besides this, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in radiotherapy planning and delivery has optimized treatment workflows and outcomes, which is providing an impetus to the market. Furthermore, the presence of highly skilled medical professionals and a well-established healthcare system in Japan ensures efficient delivery of these treatments, which is facilitating market expansion. Also, ongoing research and development (R&D) activities by leading players and academic institutions are fostering innovations in radiotherapy is enriching the Japan radiotherapy market outlook.

In addition to this, the increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure, including specialized oncology centers, are enabling easy accessibility of radiotherapy services across the country. Moreover, the rising awareness among the public regarding early cancer diagnosis and treatment options is leading to a higher product uptake. Apart from this, collaborations between domestic and international companies are encouraging technological advancements and market competitiveness, thereby ensuring the availability of radiotherapy solutions in Japan. For instance, on January 17, 2024, Vysioneer announced a strategic collaboration with MC Medical to introduce its AI-powered brain tumor auto-contouring solution, VBrain, to the Japanese market. This partnership aims to enhance clinical workflows and improve treatment precision in brain tumor management by leveraging AI technology. VBrain is designed to streamline clinical workflows and elevate treatment accuracy for brain radiosurgery and radiotherapy, offering significant reductions in workload and improvements in patient care quality.

Japan Radiotherapy Market Trends:

Rising Prevalence of Cancer and Aging Population

The increasing incidence of cancer, especially among Japan's aging population, is impacting the Japan radiotherapy market growth. A research conducted by the National Library of Medicine indicates that the overall incidence of cancer in Japan is likely to rise. It estimates a total of 3,665,900 (3,210,200 to 4,201,400) thousand new cases by 2050, indicating a 13.1% increase from the year 2020. The demographic trend has also increased healthcare infrastructure investment and the implementation of significant radiotherapy technologies. The increase is also attributed to aging people aged 75 years and older. The risk of cancer increases with age, and thus, the demand for more advanced treatment modalities, such as radiotherapy, is increasing. These advances in treatment are meant to improve precision, minimize side effects, and cater to the unique needs of older patients.

Technological Advancements in Radiotherapy Equipment

Technological progress is significantly rising the Japan radiotherapy market share. Radiotherapy equipment innovations such as image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT), intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) improve the accuracy of treatment while reducing damage to surrounding tissues. Japan leads the way in developing proton and heavy ion therapy systems, which are highly effective in complex tumor treatments. The innovations cater to the increasing requirements of patients by aligning them with government measures to enhance internal healthcare capabilities. For instance, in 2024, Hitachi High-Tech released OXRAY, an X-ray therapy system designed to reduce patient burdens while delivering accurate radiation treatment for cancer. The portable design of this system allows installation at specialized medical centers and regional hospitals, bringing precision and quality to cancer treatments. Hitachi High-Tech is developing advanced particle beam systems and an accelerator for high-precision, low-cost treatments, further enhancing patient-friendly, high-precision cancer therapies. These developments drive the market demand as more hospitals and cancer centers leverage these innovations.

Government Policies and Healthcare Infrastructure Expansion

Healthcare policies and infrastructural investments influence Japan radiotherapy market trends. Japan mainly focuses its efforts on the care of cancer patients through its Cancer Control Act, underlining early detection, standardization of treatment, and the adoption of advanced technology. The government invests heavily in updating healthcare structures and increasing the availability of specialized treatments for cancer. These initiatives are followed by the support given by the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare in promoting clinical trials and research, hence the development of innovations in radiotherapy. Strategic partnerships foster the adoption of advanced radiotherapy technologies and drive investments that support market expansion. For instance, on 24 September 2024, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Honduras, and the Government of Japan collaborated to promote cancer care in Honduras through the IAEA's Rays of Hope initiative. This collaboration will increase radiotherapy services and extend access to lifesaving cancer diagnosis and treatment in Honduras. For this, the government of Japan has expressed its interest to contribute with facilities, equipment, and infrastructures. At the same time, the IAEA will provide technical advisory services to foster an increase in the country's facilities for radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiotherapy.

Japan Radiotherapy Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the Japan radiotherapy market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on type, application, and end user.

Analysis by Type:

• External Beam Radiation Therapy 
  • Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
  • Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
  • Tomotherapy
  • Stereotactic Radiosurgery
  • Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy
  • Proton Therapy
  • 3D Conformal Radiotherapy (3D CRT)
  • Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT)
• Internal Radiation Therapy/Brachytherapy
• Systemic Radiation Therapy
   

External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is a significant segment in the radiation therapy market in Japan. EBRT helps give high-energy beams targeted toward tumors but minimizes damage to other tissues around it. Advances like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and SBRT are gradually used for greater precision and decreased side effects of radiation. Japan's investment in cutting-edge linear accelerators and image-guided technologies enhances treatment outcomes. With an aging population and increasing cancer incidence, EBRT remains essential in expanding access to non-invasive and effective treatment solutions.

Brachytherapy is one of the key components of radiotherapy advancements in Japan, especially for cervical, prostate, and breast cancers. The radioactive sources are placed directly inside or near the tumor, delivering high doses of radiation to the target while sparing healthy tissues. This approach allows for shorter treatment durations and fewer hospital visits, appealing to patient preferences. Japan's adoption of image-guided brachytherapy (IGBT) has significantly improved accuracy and outcomes. Government-sponsored programs to incorporate brachytherapy into overall cancer treatment emphasize the role of brachytherapy, especially in areas where high-tech external beam technologies are scarce.

Systemic radiation therapy, including radiopharmaceuticals, has been increasingly adopted in Japan, especially for metastatic cancers. The therapy is delivered through radioactive drugs that circulate in the bloodstream to reach the cancer cells. Lutetium-177 and Iodine-131 are the most common radionuclides used for prostate and thyroid cancers, respectively. In Japan, improvements in the regulatory side have allowed more rapid approvals for radiopharmaceuticals, thus growing the market. Systemic therapy would represent a minimally invasive treatment modality with specificity, as advocated by personalized medicine in Japan, improving patient quality of life.

Analysis by Application:

• Skin and Lip Cancer
• Head and Neck Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Cervical Cancer
• Lung Cancer
• Others
   

Radiotherapy plays an important role in the management of skin and lip cancer in Japan, especially non-melanoma types such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. For tumors in cosmetically sensitive areas, external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is widely used to avoid surgery. Techniques like superficial X-ray therapy and brachytherapy provide targeted therapy with minimal scarring and excellent aesthetic results. The management is effective due to the increasing awareness regarding early diagnosis and the availability of advanced technologies.

Radiotherapy is significant in the treatment of head and neck cancers in Japan, and is usually combined with chemotherapy or surgery to achieve better results. These cancers, involving the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx, need specific targeting to conserve vital structures. Technologies such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy and image-guided radiation therapy have become widely used, where the tumor would be controlled in the least aggressive manner possible in terms of side effects such as xerostomia and swallowing difficulty. Japan also invests in proton therapy in support of good care.

Radiotherapy is used in Japan after lumpectomy as the first treatment course for breast cancer, minimizing the risks of recurrence. It also applies different techniques like whole-breast irradiation and APBI tailored to each patient, achieving efficient tumor control while avoiding excessive damage to normal tissues. Advanced technologies employed include 3D conformal radiation and proton therapy, which take accurate targeting, more so for left-sided breast cancer exposure on the heart. The rise in breast cancer diagnoses in Japan is one of the major Japan radiotherapy market trends that are leading to increased investment in radiotherapy infrastructure to drive the care of the disease and thus increase survival rates.

Analysis by End User:

• Hospitals
• Cancer Research Institutes
• Ambulatory and Radiotherapy Centers
   

Hospitals are the biggest players in Japan's radiotherapy market. As a single point stop for all cancer treatment needs, hospitals have well-equipped technologies like linear accelerators and proton therapy systems. These centers provide high-quality care to patients through the administration of EBRT and brachytherapy, thus being able to guarantee accuracy and patient safety. Since cancer is one of the leading causes of death in Japan, hospitals increasingly integrate radiotherapy with surgical and systemic treatments. Government investments in public hospitals to expand radiotherapy infrastructure and improve accessibility underline their central role in meeting the growing demand for advanced cancer care.

Radiotherapy technologies and techniques are advanced in Japan by research institutes dedicated to cancer. Such institutes are oriented toward clinical trials, including novel approaches such as proton and carbon-ion therapy and personalized medicine solutions. Their contribution increases the effectiveness of treatment, reduces side effects, and enhances survival rates. Collaboration with academic and industrial partners propels innovative radiopharmaceuticals and diagnostic tools into the future. These institutes support Japan's leadership in radiotherapy innovation and contribute to global advancements in cancer treatment strategies by training specialized professionals and conducting research on treatment optimization.

Ambulatory and radiotherapy centers are growing in popularity in Japan, catering to the needs of accessible, specialized cancer care. These are outpatient centers, thus reducing pressure on hospitals and, at the same time, providing high-quality care. They are fitted with the most advanced systems of EBRT and brachytherapy, so precise and efficient care is assured. Their operations are streamlined, and the treatment is shorter, a factor that attracts patients who desire convenience. Also, due to the increasing incidence of cancer and an aging population, these centers will be crucial for decentralizing care and meeting the demand, particularly in areas that lack comprehensive hospital facilities.

Regional Analysis:

• Kanto Region
• Kansai/Kinki Region
• Central/ Chubu Region
• Kyushu-Okinawa Region
• Tohoku Region
• Chugoku Region
• Hokkaido Region
• Shikoku Region
   

The Kanto region housing Tokyo and Yokohama, accounts for the majority share of the radiotherapy market in Japan. The region offers highly developed health infrastructure with world-class cancer treatment centers and research facilities. Proton and carbon-ion therapy is readily available, and it has been an advanced hub for radiotherapy. This region is very populous, with a high prevalence of cancer. Government funding and private investments support continuous upgrades in radiotherapy facilities, ensuring accessibility and quality care. Kanto's prominence in medical research and innovation reinforces its pivotal role in shaping the radiotherapy market.

The Kansai region, encompassing Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, is a key region in Japan's radiotherapy market. The region is known for its academic and medical excellence, with several specialized cancer centers offering advanced therapies such as IMRT and stereotactic radiotherapy. Kansai's aging population and high urban density drive demand for accessible and effective cancer treatments. Collaborative efforts between universities, hospitals, and research institutes foster innovation in radiotherapy techniques and technologies. Government support for healthcare infrastructure also adds to the region's capability to provide high-tech treatments and is, therefore, an essential part of the oncology treatment in Japan.

Central/Chubu Region encompassing Nagoya and its surroundings, is a growing center for radiotherapy in Japan. The region boasts a strong industrial base and is, therefore, reaping benefits from investments in healthcare technology and infrastructure. Increasing patient demand has resulted in Chubu cancer centers embracing the latest radiotherapy approaches, such as image-guided and proton therapy. The regional location and effective transportation network ease access to high-tech treatments, especially for adjacent rural areas. Efforts in integrating radiotherapy into the more holistic cancer treatment models place Chubu in a strategic position as a key promoter of equitable distribution of healthcare opportunities within Japan.

The Kyushu-Okinawa region is an important region for radiotherapy as it caters to the growing needs of the aging population and remote island communities. Major cancer centers in Fukuoka and Okinawa are focusing on providing quality care with the most advanced techniques available, such as SBRT. The region will focus on the improvement of radiotherapy access in underserved areas through mobile units and telemedicine support. The regional government programs aimed to strengthen infrastructure in healthcare and to reduce disparities in availability in the treatment of patients. Innovation coupled with access drives the power of reinforcement for the ongoing proliferation of radiotherapy in Kyushu-Okinawa.

The Tohoku region focuses on investment in its health infrastructure, particularly in radiotherapy units. Continual efforts on equitable cancer care results in the incorporation of modern technologies such as linear accelerators and brachytherapy systems into regional hospitals. The population in Tohoku, which has an aging population, drives demand for effective treatments for cancer. Local initiatives will bridge gaps in rural healthcare access by establishing satellite radiotherapy centers. With continued assistance in the rebuilding and modernization of health care systems, the role of Tohoku is pivotal in Japan's ambition to offer access to sophisticated, equitable oncology.

The Chugoku region is one of the emerging regions in the radiotherapy sector in Japan. This region has been conducting research on health, including the effects of radiation, and it uses its knowledge to improve the treatment of cancer. Major hospitals in Hiroshima and Okayama have advanced radiotherapy systems, including proton and carbon-ion therapy. The region is focused on integrating radiotherapy into comprehensive cancer care frameworks to improve patient outcomes. Investments in expanding healthcare infrastructure and training specialists are driving growth, making Chugoku an important contributor to Japan's radiotherapy advancements.

Hokkaido is a sparsely populated area with huge geographic distances, yet most of the centers in Sapporo are providing the latest radiation therapies, like IGRT and brachytherapy, meeting the needs of the region. Mobile radiotherapy units have reduced disparities in healthcare access across rural areas. Hokkaido has maintained a focus on telemedicine use and partnerships with urban centers in order to assure quality care to patients in more remote areas. Government support for infrastructure development is making radiotherapy services more accessible, thus making Hokkaido an integral part of Japan's aim to ensure equitable cancer treatment.

Shikoku region, which has a smaller population, regional healthcare improvement is the priority in order to address the growing demands for cancer care. The hospitals in cities such as Matsuyama and Takamatsu are expanding their radiotherapy capabilities, including EBRT and brachytherapy. Government-back initiatives for improvement in medical services and training, including specialized ones meet the challenges with accessibility. Cooperation with the larger areas enables the implementation of advanced technologies; therefore, all patients can expect quality care. Strategic efforts at Shikoku to improve regional radiotherapy service are essential steps in bridging the gaps created by the differences in cancer treatments in the area.

Competitive Landscape:

The market in Japan is highly competitive, majorly driven by technological advancements and innovation. Key players focus more on the development of precision-based radiotherapy systems such as proton and carbon ion therapy to address the increasing cancer burden. Higher investments in research and development (R&D) activities and healthcare infrastructure expansion also intensify competition. Strategic partnerships among healthcare institutions and technology developers help to foster innovation and accelerate the adoption of next-generation radiotherapy equipment. These partnerships improve accessibility to advanced treatments while ensuring market growth. For instance, on 31 October 2024, Leo Cancer Care announced a partnership with Anzai Medical Co., Ltd, making Anzai the official distributor of Leo's upright radiation therapy systems in Japan. This collaboration aims to enhance patient comfort and treatment efficiency by introducing new systems, which include the Marie upright particle therapy solution. The partnership will provide Japanese healthcare providers with state-of-the-art, adaptable radiation therapy technologies in line with the commitment of both companies to enhance cancer care.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the Japan radiotherapy market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Elekta K.K. (Elekta)
• Hitachi Ltd.
• Osaka Heavy Ion Therapy Center
• Sumitomo Heavy Industries Ltd.
• Toshiba Corporation

Latest News and Developments:

• April 17, 2024: Japan's National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) initiated multi-ion heavy particle radiotherapy to enhance cancer treatment, particularly for bone and soft-tissue sarcoma. This next-generation technology combines ion beams like carbon, oxygen, and helium for tailored treatment, reducing side effects and improving efficacy. The development, achieved in collaboration with Sumitomo Heavy Industries, builds on three decades of advancements and positions Japan as a leader in radiotherapy innovation.
• June 18, 2024: RaySearch Laboratories' RayStation was used for the world's first clinical radiotherapy treatment with Hitachi's OXRAY system at Narita Memorial Hospital in Toyohashi, Japan. OXRAY, developed in collaboration with Kyoto University Hospital, integrates a Gimbal-mounted beam delivery system and advanced motion tracking capabilities, improving precision and flexibility in radiotherapy. This milestone highlights the synergy between RaySearch's planning software and OXRAY's innovative technology, promising enhanced treatment outcomes.
• June 27, 2024: Yamagata University's East Japan Heavy Ion Center, offering advanced carbon-ion radiation therapy, is becoming a key hub for medical tourism. The facility specializes in treating various cancers with minimal side effects, attracting both domestic and international patients. The center is expanding its collaborations with local businesses to offer tailored travel and treatment packages, boosting the region's economy through medical tourism.
• September 25, 2024: Leo Cancer Care announced a new research partnership with QST Hospital in Japan to test its upright positioning system for cancer treatment. This collaboration aims to evaluate patient comfort, reproducibility, and immobilization across various anatomical regions, with a focus on advancing carbon ion radiotherapy. The partnership follows similar agreements in Japan and Italy, marking significant progress in the development of upright radiotherapy solutions.

Japan Radiotherapy Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the Japan radiotherapy market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the Japan radiotherapy market.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the Japan radiotherapy industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.