Guidelines for advertising after tie-up controversy - Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare confirms whether it is acceptable

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has formulated guidelines that summarize the points to be noted when creating advertisements that disseminate policy information through tie-ups with movies and dramas. In response to a poster aimed at supporting cancer patients that went viral on social media, the plan included checking with those involved to see if it would be accepted by those affected, and whether there is a risk of reinforcing misunderstandings or prejudice.

Cancer support cancels partnership with film; ``Remembering death'' draws criticism - Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has teamed up with a movie depicting a woman who has been diagnosed with cancer to raise awareness of support systems for cancer patients. The posters were sent to hospitals and other institutions, but because the movie deals with the death of a woman, they received a series of criticisms, asking ``what would patients think if they saw it?'' and asked them to stop displaying them.

The guidelines clearly state that the public relations office will first check whether the content is sound and relevant to policy, and whether there is any social risk to the performers. The department in charge will then watch the preview and understand the content, then present the proposed advertisement to the parties and supporters and listen to their opinions. For example, in raising awareness about cancer screening, the government will listen to the opinions of those eligible for cancer screening, those who have battled the disease, patients' families, and medical personnel. A tie-up is finally decided upon after confirmation from the department head in charge.

Within the government, the Ministry of Justice, which had partnered with an internet program starring former motorcycle gang members, canceled the tie-up due to criticism of the performers' comments. How to prevent flare-ups is a common issue for all ministries and agencies, and inquiries have been received regarding the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's guidelines.