Spain is on a trajectory to match Japan as the world’s most long-lived nation by 2040, a demographic shift that presents significant challenges to healthcare systems in both countries. According to a projection published by The Lancet, Spain’s life expectancy is expected to surpass 85 years, mirroring Japan’s current rate of 84.5 years, as reported by El País.
Currently, 20.1% of Spain’s population is over 65, compared to 29% in Japan. Projections for 2040 estimate these figures will rise to 27.9% and 34.8% respectively, highlighting a shared demographic trend of aging populations, increased chronic diseases, and declining birth rates. These factors are placing increasing strain on the sustainability of both nations’ healthcare systems.
A new report, “Japan, the Spain of 2040: Challenges and Solutions for the Future National Health System,” commissioned by Daiichi Sankyo, explores potential solutions based on Japan’s decades of experience in managing an aging population. Japan has been internationally recognized by the World Health Organization for its comprehensive approach to preventative healthcare and health promotion, central tenets of its strategy to make healthcare spending more sustainable and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
The report emphasizes the need for Spain to adopt a model centered on primary care and long-term care. Japan’s system includes a mandatory long-term care insurance program, starting at age 40, covering home care services, day centers, residential care, and support for caregivers. Japan promotes “inclusive communities” designed to delay institutionalization, ensuring access to comprehensive services within a 30-minute radius for all residents.
Japan’s approach also prioritizes proactive health management through regular health check-ups and early detection programs. The “Ningen Dock” program offers comprehensive health evaluations accessible to anyone, often funded by employers. The “Tokutei Kenshin” program provides free or subsidized medical examinations for individuals aged 40-74 with metabolic diseases. Mass cancer screening programs are also organized and managed by local governments. The “Healthy Japan 21” initiative, launched in 2000, is continuously updated to prevent and control non-communicable diseases.
The Japanese government also incentivizes health and productivity initiatives, recognizing companies listed on the stock exchange that excel in health management, making them more attractive to investors. Japan is also investing in the digitalization and interoperability of its healthcare system, developing a national health data platform to facilitate access to complete medical histories for healthcare professionals and promote biomedical research.
The Daiichi Sankyo report proposes three key areas for Spain to adapt Japanese policies: strengthening primary care and preventative policies, which could generate annual savings exceeding €3.5 billion. increasing digitalization to ensure equitable access; and developing an integrated care system with coordinated socio-health services, including joint assessment teams and long-term care models, prioritizing home-based care.
Hiroshi Yamauchi, the Japanese Ambassador to Spain, highlighted the importance of sharing experiences given Spain’s projected longevity, emphasizing the role of community, businesses, and individuals in creating a more sustainable environment. The report suggests that addressing the challenges of an aging population requires a holistic approach that considers not only physical health but also social well-being, including combating loneliness.
