June 1st is 'Inguinal Hernia Day': Campaign Launched to Warn 'Hidden Hernia' Patients Avoiding Treatment

Gi Surgical Clinic, operated by Medical Corporation Gi, launched an awareness campaign on May 19, 2026, ahead of 'Inguinal Hernia Day' on June 1. The campaign defines individuals who leave their inguinal hernias untreated as 'Hidden Hernia' cases, urging them to seek early medical advice.

An inguinal hernia is a condition where part of the intestine or other organs protrude from the groin area. In the early stages, symptoms such as swelling when standing that disappears when lying down often lead people to delay treatment, thinking it is fine as long as it is not painful. However, if 'strangulation' occurs—where the protruding organ becomes stuck—blood flow can be cut off, leading to intestinal necrosis in the worst cases. The Japan Hernia Society states that surgery is currently the only medical method to cure this condition.

A 2024 survey of 1,006 men aged 40 and over revealed that while 47.4% noticed initial symptoms, approximately half felt resistant to visiting a hospital. Common reasons included the 'difficulty of discussing delicate areas' (46.6%) and 'not knowing which clinic to visit' (41.8%). Another survey of 1,021 men in their 20s to 60s showed that about half would not seek immediate treatment even if they knew the risks, choosing instead to 'wait and see' or 'not go unless symptoms worsen.'

To address this gap between knowledge and action, Gi Surgical Clinic is moving away from complex medical terminology, instead communicating the risk clearly as 'intestines getting stuck and dying due to lack of blood flow,' promoting early treatment to help patients regain a daily life free from worry.