My Philosophy
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Interview .01 ｜ An Experience in Pediatric Cancer Care, Shaped by Support, and the Step Toward Research
An interview with Dr. Akie Nakamura, who is researching the mechanisms underlying endocrine late effects in childhood cancer survivors, with support from the first-ever Women PI Startup initiative at Child Health
Department of Molecular Endocrinology Chief
Until March 2023, I worked as a pediatric endocrinologist at Hokkaido University Hospital. As the hospital is one of the 15 nationally designated pediatric cancer centers in Japan, I was involved in the care of many childhood cancer survivors. Although my specialty in endocrinology meant that I was not often directly involved in cancer treatment, these patients face a long-term risk of developing late complications after completing cancer therapy. Endocrine-related late effects are particularly common, and I had many opportunities to care for childhood cancer survivors with these conditions.
At that time, there was no established system that encouraged endocrinologists to take an active role in the follow-up care of pediatric cancer patients, and we faced many challenges. In response, hematologists and endocrinologists worked together to establish a new framework for proactive patient follow-up. Female physicians, many of whom were balancing their work with child-rearing, played a central role in building this system. Through information sharing and coordinating care, we were able to provide smoother clinical management and achieve earlier diagnoses of endocrine late effects. Nevertheless, many patients continued to experience difficulties in treatment, which led me to strongly recognize the need for research to elucidate the mechanisms underlying endocrine late complications, a motivation that has guided my work to this day.
The program supporting women principal investigators that I have received on this occasion is essential for creating environments in which individuals from diverse backgrounds can fully utilize their skills. I believe such support is particularly important for colleagues who continue their professional careers while navigating various life events. With deep gratitude for this support, I am committed to advancing my research.
Department of Molecular Endocrinology Chief
Graduated from Asahikawa Medical University. After completing clinical training in pediatrics at community hospitals in Hokkaido, obtained board certification as a pediatrician.
Completed a doctoral program at Hokkaido University Graduate School and became board-certified in endocrinology.
After completing graduate school, worked as a collaborative researcher at the National Center for Child Health and Development, engaging in research on imprinting disorders.
After serving as an associate professor and lecturer at Hokkaido University Hospital, assumed her current position in 2024.