Hamashima C, Sobue T, Hiroshi S; Health Technology Assessment International. Meeting (3rd : 2006 : Adelaide, S. Aust.).
Handb Health Technol Assess. 2006; 3: 65.
National Cancer Center, 5-1-1 Tsukiji Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan, 1040045
Background: Although it has been health policy to do nationwide cancer screenings as part of cancer control programs since 1983 in Japan, screening rates have been below 20% and have flatten in the last decade. Objective: We conducted a survey of the inhabitants of several municipalities and of healthcare professionals to compare their knowledge and attitude towards cancer screenings. Methods: The surveys were conducted by mailing questionnaires to target groups: 1) the general population over 30 years old living in 8 municipalities; 2) local employees of municipal cancer screening programs; and 3) councilors of academic association. The questionnaire consisted of questions regarding the respondents knowledge of and attitudes towards cancer screening. The questions were the same as those used in a U.S. survey in order to permit a comparison of results between the Japanese and American populations. Results: Overall, more than 90% of Japanese people believed that screening was 'almost always a good idea. However, almost all respondents did not think that either a 55-year-old or an 80-year-old person who chose not be tested was irresponsible. The attitudes towards cancer screening were similar in all groups. Despite different degrees of knowledge about cancer screening that depended on subjects backgrounds, most Japanese people reached similar conclusions about cancer screening. Conclusions: Based on our survey results, people in Japan are not enthusiastic about cancer screening, and are not aware of its significance. To improve cancer screening rates, appropriate information should be disseminated to the population.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Attitude
- Attitude of Health Personnel
- Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
- Health Personnel
- Japan
- Knowledge
- Mass Screening
- Neoplasms
- Population Groups
- Questionnaires
- hsrmtgs
UI: 103724831
From Meeting Abstracts