第三疾病 / three major diseases
三大疾病 (sandai shippei) refers to the “three major illnesses” commonly recognized in Japanese insurance: cancer (がん), acute myocardial infarction (heart attack / 急性心筋梗塞), and cerebrovascular disease (such as stroke / 脳卒中など). These conditions are grouped together due to their severity, long-term impact, and the significant medical costs they often involve. Many insurance plans in Japan offer special coverage for 三大疾病, making it an important term to know when considering health or life insurance.
Curious to hear more about it? Want to learn how to pronounce it? Watch or listen to Episode 21 using the below link 👇