Background

As part of a broader effort to support preventive health and wellness, QoLead, a subsidiary of the Dai-ichi Life Group, developed the wellness app QoLism for members of corporate health insurance unions (健保組合). The app forms part of the Healstep℠ initiative, a joint project with Mizuho Research & Technologies and Dai-ichi Life, designed to support health promotion and self-care using digital tools.

In 2021, QoLead integrated Bodygram's AI body analysis technology into the QoLism app, making it possible for users to track physical changes—such as waist size—using just their smartphone. This partnership reflects the evolving health consciousness in Japan, particularly in response to lifestyle changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Integration

Bodygram’s AI estimation engine uses two full-body photos taken by the user (front and side) while fully clothed. From these, it estimates up to 25 body measurements, including waist circumference—a key risk factor for metabolic conditions. The process is quick, non-invasive, and requires no physical measuring tools.

The results are seamlessly integrated into the user’s QoLism profile, allowing users to:

• Monitor changes in body composition over time
• Receive tailored recommendations on exercise and diet
• Establish healthy routines as part of everyday life

Because this technology works on a standard smartphone, it can be deployed widely across user groups regardless of age, location, or access to medical equipment.

Strategic Value

This feature directly supports Japan’s growing focus on “Kenko Keiei®” (health and productivity management)—a corporate strategy that views employee wellness as a business asset. As more companies adopt remote work and flexible arrangements, concerns around sedentary lifestyles and weight gain have increased. Health insurers and employers alike have recognized the need for low-friction, scalable tools that help people manage their health independently.

By making health monitoring part of a user’s daily smartphone routine, Bodygram and QoLism eliminate common friction points:

• No need to visit clinics or gyms for basic assessments
• No manual entry or physical measurement tools
• No discomfort or privacy concerns from undressing

This encourages more frequent engagement, which in turn supports long-term behavior change and early detection of health risks.

Broader Impact

The integration is not just a technical feature—it represents a shift in how wellness is delivered. Through Bodygram’s technology, QoLism contributes to several high-impact goals:

• Healthcare cost reduction: By promoting early risk detection, the system supports insurers in reducing the long-term burden of chronic illness
• Employee performance: Consistent self-care tracking correlates with better health, higher energy, and greater work output
• Data-driven health strategy: Aggregated data from body measurements can inform personalized wellness programs and future AI development

The approach aligns with trends in telemedicine and data health, where continuous monitoring and digital diagnostics are becoming integral to next-generation healthcare systems.

Market Response and Vision

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the demand for self-managed health tools. Bodygram's implementation within QoLism marked a pivotal step toward mainstreaming AI health monitoring in Japan. According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), interest in body size and weight tracking rose significantly during lockdowns and remote work periods. Employers also became more proactive in supporting the health of remote staff.

As Japan’s healthcare ecosystem modernizes, solutions like Bodygram are expected to play a central role in remote diagnostics, wellness program personalization, and corporate health optimization. Future applications may include broader biometric tracking, predictive health alerts, and enhanced telehealth experiences.

Leadership Insight

“We’re proud to support QoLead in driving innovation within Japan’s healthcare industry. As wellness investment becomes a global imperative, Bodygram is positioned to help Japanese companies protect the well-being of their people while reducing healthcare costs. Our technology is creating a new normal where health measurement is effortless, regular, and meaningful.”

— Rei Aiba, COO of Bodygram Japan

Conclusion

The partnership between QoLism and Bodygram represents a scalable, tech-driven approach to wellness. With just a smartphone, users can now monitor their health in real-time—gaining not only insights into body changes but also guidance on healthier living.

For insurers and employers, this creates a sustainable feedback loop: healthier individuals lead to stronger organizational performance and lower medical expenditure. Bodygram’s entry into healthcare technology is not just a feature—it’s a strategy for the future of preventive health.

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