A medical student asks questions to surgical support software tool that uses artificial intelligence. Moves are underway in Japan to develop artificial intelligence tools designed to help reduce burdens on surgeons. While the number of cancer patients in the country is projected to peak in around 2040 amid an aging population, too few people want to become surgeons due to the job's challenging work environment. The government is responding to the crisis by supporting companies working to develop AI technology to help surgeons. In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.