On July 13, 2009, the Commission on Citizens and Health, the patient empowerment unit of the Health Policy Institute, Japan, announced the launching of “Local Initiative – Citizens’ Collaboration Program on Cancer Control” on August 1. After a strict evaluation, 12 out of 63 project plans were selected. These projects will be implemented as local-based cancer control improvement projects, spearheaded by patients / citizens teaming with local healthcare professionals and administrations.