Fujitsu and iSurgery Collaborate to Enhance Bone Health Through Innovative Radiography Assessment

Fujitsu Limited and iSurgery Co., Ltd. are embarking on a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving bone health in Japan. In collaboration with the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the Jikei University School of Medicine, the two Japanese companies are set to conduct a field trial between October 2023 and March 2025 as part of their “Bone Health Promotion Project.” 

This endeavor represents a significant milestone, as it marks the first time in Japan that a local employer is taking actions to take employees’ bone health into consideration during health examinations. The project’s primary focus is to explore the feasibility of bone assessments conducted using chest radiographs and their potential impact on Fujitsu employees’ health-related attitudes and habits.

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The Role of Cutting-Edge AI Technology

Central to this pioneering initiative is the utilization of iSurgery’s AI medical device known as the Chest Bone Indicator. This innovative software enables the assessment of bone health directly from chest radiographs, eliminating the need for specialized bone densitometry tests. Through this technology, the project group will assess and communicate bone health examination results to Fujitsu Group employees.

Based on the evaluation outcomes, employees may be advised to seek a more comprehensive examination conducted by a medical specialist. Importantly, regardless of the assessment results, the project team will offer health guidance and prevention strategies grounded in the fundamental principles of bone health, as provided by the Jikei University School of Medicine in Tokyo.

Addressing Osteoporosis – A Growing Challenge in Japan

Osteoporosis poses a significant and growing challenge in Japan, particularly in the context of its aging population. Currently, an estimated 12.8 million individuals in Japan live with osteoporosis, but the screening rate for this condition remains relatively low, hovering around 5%. Even more concerning, approximately 80% of individuals diagnosed with osteoporosis do not receive any form of treatment. Left untreated, osteoporosis can result in fractures and long-term care requirements, imposing substantial costs on both the healthcare system and society as a whole, amounting to roughly 1 trillion yen.

A Vision for the Future

Fujitsu’s commitment to enhancing the health and well-being of its employees aligns with broader health management policies. By focusing on preventative measures and addressing common health complaints such as back pain and headaches, Fujitsu aims to improve both the productivity and quality of life of its workforce. Notably, a bone density test introduced in January 2023 proved effective as a preventive measure against bone health problems. However, this approach was limited by the requirement for specialized testing equipment, which limited accessibility and increased costs.

The collaboration with iSurgery and the use of its AI medical device offer a practical and cost-effective alternative. The project’s success will not only promote bone health among Fujitsu employees but also serve as a model for other organizations seeking to enhance the well-being of their workforces. The data and insights gained from this innovative trial will contribute to the early detection and treatment of osteoporosis, benefiting both employees and the broader society in an aging Japan.

Author

Sinead Huang