Japanese Experts' Research on Hydrogen Improving Cancer Survival Rates

Recently, the renowned "CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians" published the "Cancer Treatment and Survivorship Statistics, 2022" by the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This report, updated every three years, utilizes data from multiple sources including the US SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) database. It analyzes cancer incidence, survival data, treatments for common cancer types, treatment-related side effects, and offers guidance for cancer survivors dealing with the physical and psychological impacts of cancer and its treatment. Although the data primarily focuses on the US population, it provides valuable insights and reference points for cancer treatment in other countries. (Interested readers are encouraged to access the full report for further details.)

The report indicates that as of January 1, 2019, there were approximately 16.9 million cancer survivors in the United States. By January 1, 2022, this number had exceeded 18 million, including 8.3 million men and 9.7 million women. Among male survivors, the three most common cancers were prostate cancer (3,523,230), melanoma (760,640), and colorectal cancer (726,450). Among female survivors, the most common were breast cancer (4,055,770), endometrial cancer (891,560), and thyroid cancer (823,800).

Among all cancer survivors, 53% were diagnosed within the past 10 years; 47% have survived for more than 10 years; 18% have survived for more than 20 years; and 67% are aged 65 or older.

The report data suggests that with advancements in early cancer detection and treatment, nearly half of cancer survivors have lived for at least 10 years. The number of cancer survivors continues to grow! In reality, survival and health after a cancer diagnosis depend on various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the treatment received, and individual health conditions. Taking specific measures—such as improving diet and physical activity—after diagnosis, during treatment, and post-treatment can help patients live longer, reduce the risk of recurrence and complications, minimize treatment-related side effects, and improve overall health.

Can Hydrogen Improve Cancer Survival Rates?

A growing body of research has found that cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) are associated with the formation, proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, and distant metastasis of human tumor cells. Hydrogen is known for its potent antioxidant effects, characterized by high selectivity (neutralizing only toxic ROS), high diffusivity, and high safety. As a result, hydrogen is increasingly being studied for cancer prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. But can hydrogen truly improve cancer survival rates? compelling evidence comes from Japanese researchers who found that hydrogen inhalation, combined with immunotherapy, significantly extended survival time in lung and colorectal cancer patients and improved anti-tumor immune function.

A study conducted by Kagoshima University Graduate School in Japan and Sam Ratulangi University in Indonesia used high-concentration hydrogen water alongside the common anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil. Through both cellular and animal models, the study demonstrated that hydrogen not only promotes tumor cell apoptosis but also enhances the antitumor effect of 5-fluorouracil when used in combination, significantly prolonging the lifespan of tumor-bearing animals.

Impact of Hydrogen Water and Chemotherapy on Survival Time in Cancer Models

In a mouse model of colon cancer, hydrogen-rich water (≈0.8 mM) significantly increased survival time compared with placebo water treatment. Moreover, when hydrogen-rich water was combined with 5-fluorouracil, the increase in survival time was even greater.

A clinical study led by Dr. Akagi at the Akagi Medical and Health Center in Japan investigated the effects of hydrogen inhalation on colorectal cancer. The study analyzed the correlation between PD-1 expression on CD8+ T cells in the circulating blood of 55 colorectal cancer patients and their progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). It also observed the impact of hydrogen inhalation on PD-1 expression and patient prognosis. The results indicated that CD8+/PD-1+ T cells are an independent factor associated with poor prognosis in cancer patients. After hydrogen treatment, the proportion of these cells decreased in the 55 patients with advanced colorectal cancer, leading to significantly improved prognosis, particularly in prolonged progression-free survival. This study suggests that hydrogen enhances patients' own anti-cancer immune function, helps prevent chemotherapy-induced immune suppression, and most importantly, benefits late-stage cancer patients—especially those undergoing chemotherapy—by boosting their self-immunity against cancer, improving quality of life, and extending survival time.