Oncofertility in Japan: advances in research and the roles of oncofertility consortia

In Japan, an important issue is to be able to provide young cancer patients with timely and accurate information about the indications and options for fertility preservation when it is applicable. Therefore, it is necessary to create an environment that assists young cancer patients to make a decision about whether or not to choose fertility preservation. The Japan Society for Fertility Preservation was established in 2012, as Japan's first oncofertility association. Its purpose is to create an environment in which cancer patients can receive evidence-based oncofertility care. Accordingly, the mantra of the Japan Society for Fertility Preservation is: 'While anticancer treatment should be prioritized, fertility preservation may also be chosen to allow the patient to fight cancer without losing hope of a normal future'.