On January 28, 2023, the "Hug You Project" was officially launched at a special press conference held by Fam Medico, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Rie Mochizuki, a prominent freelance announcer, served as the master of ceremonies for the event. Dressed sharply in dark-colored attire complemented by beige pumps, Mochizuki's professional appearance set the tone for the day’s focus on women's health.
The "Hug You Project" is termed as a corporate participation initiative, dedicated to addressing healthcare challenges specific to women. It aims at enhancing awareness around necessary health screenings and bolstering the knowledge of women about their unique health issues. Notable corporate sponsors of this initiative include reputable names such as Shiseido and Fukoku Seimei, signaling broad support for the endeavor.
During the event, Tomomi Anzai of Fam Medico articulated the project's objectives. She emphasized the need for more widespread awareness of health screenings required for women, particularly as they pursue their career aspirations. "ファムメディコが持つ最大のソリューションである'女性に必要な検査'を広め、女性の健康について意識や知識を高めることで、女性の『働き続けたい』という想いに寄り添いたい," Anzai stated, reflecting the shared vision to empower working women through improved health initiatives.
Statistics shared at the press conference revealed alarming trends; over 80% of female employees reported disruptions to their work due to symptoms related to menstruation, PMS, or other women-specific health issues. This finding led to discussions on how such health challenges necessitate proactive company policies and programs aimed at supporting female employees.
Contributing to the discourse were various representatives, including Ayako Hirayama, chief editor at MERY, and Tokuo Isaka, executive director at C&R Group Health Insurance Association. They discussed current practices and respective company approaches toward women's health. Hirayama noted, "私自身MERYに入社して初めて乳がん検診を受けました," adding personal anecdotes to the importance of beginning screenings early and establishing such practices as the norm within their organizations.
Continuing the conversation on women's unique health needs, the role of corporate responsibility was highlighted. Isaka remarked, "C&R Group健保では子宮頸がん検診や乳がん検診、経膣エコーなどの検査を定期的に受診できるように、オプトアウト方式の受診制度を導入しています," showcasing practical approaches companies can take to facilitate health screenings for their employees.
Not only did the conference focus on screenings, but it also touched on support for broader issues, including infertility treatments and egg freezing, which are immensely pertinent for working women. Hirayama voiced the sensitivity surrounding topics like infertility, recognizing the necessity for workplaces to create environments where employees feel comfortable discussing these matters.
Closing remarks during the talk emphasized the significance of addressing menopause—a phase equally deserving of attention. Mochizuki pointed out, "更年期は周囲に打ち明けづらい症状だからこそ、男女ともに理解を深め、知っておくことが大事," fostering dialogue on how knowledge sharing can bridge gaps in empathy and support.
The “Hug You Project” is poised to actively conduct research, seminars, and launch initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s health literacy among employees. By setting measurable goals like increasing gynecological exams among younger female employees, participating companies aim to track their progress moving forward.
To sum up, the "Hug You Project" signifies not only the recognition of women’s health struggles but also the commitment from various corporate entities to create supportive networks for working women; encouraging them to thrive professionally without health-related barriers. The initiative stands as a beacon of hope for many, signaling growing awareness and action within corporate structures to uplift women's health and their career aspirations.