Women who choose to receive vaccinations against cervical cancer would receive financial aid under a plan envisioned by the government, Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama said earlier this year. It's time the administration took action on this idea.
The health ministry approved the cervical-cancer vaccine in October (rather late, compared to other countries), and vaccinations have been available since December. But the vaccine is not covered under Japan's health insurance scheme. Therefore, a woman who receives the vaccination must pay ¥40,000 to ¥50,000.