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Andra Yoshioka's avatar

This is a very important article. I have had 3 times about 5 years apart, and I found some problems that could be taken care of, EARLY, thanks to the Ningen Dock. Most of the experience was smooth and friendly. My husband picked a different hospital with a stomach camera without anesthesia, which I didn't think I could endure without gagging, so he found me another program. Thanks, Doc Miki, for informing the public.

Doctor from Japan's avatar

Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment—I really appreciate you sharing your experience. It’s wonderful to hear that the ningen dock helped detect issues early; that’s exactly where its true value lies.

And yes, stomach camera exams without anesthesia can definitely feel uncomfortable for many people, so I’m really glad you were able to find a program that suited you better. There are more options than people realize, and finding the right fit makes a big difference.

Francis Turner's avatar

As a Japanese resident and regular Ningen Dock patient, I agree with the recommendation. It seems to be quite rare outside Japan, though private health insurance coverage in the UK did give me something similar. Not quite as deep a dive but the basics. The good thing is that they give you all the results so if you want you can show them to your regular doctor to get their opinion.

It is worth noting that not all ningen dock offerings are the same. For example the place I go to doesn't include any MRI in the standard package. Also in my experience the blood pressure reading is variable - they don't let you properly relax before taking it and instead simply deduct 10 from the reading. It actually works out about right (I take my BP every day) but I'd think it would be better to allow the patient to calm down for a few minutes and not make adjustments.

Doctor from Japan's avatar

Thank you very much for sharing your perspective — I really appreciate it.

I’m glad to hear that you are regularly taking Ningen Dock, and I completely agree with your point that not all programs are the same. The differences in what’s included (like MRI or not) can make it quite confusing to choose the right one. That’s actually why, when people ask me for recommendations, I usually suggest a short consultation first so I can tailor the checkup based on their needs, concerns, and budget.

And yes, your comment about blood pressure is very valid. Ideally, patients should be given a few minutes to rest before measurement rather than relying on adjustments. It’s great that you are monitoring your BP regularly yourself — that kind of awareness really makes a difference.

Thank you again for sharing your experience. I hope we can both continue to help more people understand and benefit from preventive health checkups in Japan!

Lourdes's avatar

I never cease to be amazed by this great country called Japan. Great article full of important info

Doctor from Japan's avatar

Thank you so much for your kind words and comment!

And yes, as a medical doctor, I truly believe Ningen Dock in Japan is an amazing system for early detection and preventive care. If you ever visit Japan, I hope you’ll have the chance to try it!

Lourdes's avatar

What a great article, full of important info. I never cease to be amazed by this great country called Japan.