1
|
Minamitani M, Morishima K, Katano A, Ohira S, Nakagawa K. Exploring the Correlation Between Health Literacy and Knowledge of Cervical Cancer and Radiotherapy Among Japanese Women: A Web-Based Survey. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2024:10.1007/s13187-024-02432-x. [PMID: 38809493 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-024-02432-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Health literacy (HL) plays a vital role in an individual's ability to make informed health decisions. Japan faces several challenges in cervical cancer control, including low human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and screening rates, underutilization of radiotherapy, and limited HL. This study explored the association between HL and knowledge of cervical cancer and radiotherapy, particularly among young Japanese women. We conducted a web-based survey among users of LunaLuna, a popular women's healthcare application, to assess their HL and knowledge about cervical cancer and radiotherapy through a 46-question survey. We compared three groups in terms of HL (inadequate, problematic, and sufficient & excellent). Multiple regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with knowledge. In total, 1468 respondents were included in this study. HL was positively correlated with knowledge scores (inadequate: 51.8%; problematic: 56.3%; sufficient & excellent: 60%). Participants displayed relatively low accuracy for treatment-related questions. Higher HL (β = 0.15, p < 0.01), education (β = - 0.11, p < 0.01), cervical cancer screening (β = - 0.11, p < 0.01), income (β = 0.09, p < 0.01), and employment (β = - 0.06, p = 0.04) were significant factors affecting knowledge of cervical cancer and radiotherapy. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of HL in promoting cervical cancer prevention and providing a better understanding of radiotherapy. Despite factors such as age, education, and history of cervical cancer screening, HL showed the strongest association with knowledge of cervical cancer and radiotherapy. The enhancement of HL and knowledge dissemination may be critical for promoting cervical cancer prevention and radiotherapy in Japan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masanari Minamitani
- Department of Comprehensive Radiation Oncology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Kosuke Morishima
- Department of Radiology, The University of Tokyo Hospital, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Atsuto Katano
- Department of Radiology, The University of Tokyo Hospital, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shingo Ohira
- Department of Comprehensive Radiation Oncology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Keiichi Nakagawa
- Department of Comprehensive Radiation Oncology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Minamitani M, Katano A, Sasaki T, Yamaguchi S, Nakagawa K. Comparing health literacy and behavioral changes in adulthood: A pilot study on alumni of a single school cancer education program. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304381. [PMID: 38809928 PMCID: PMC11135696 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer education programs are regularly conducted in schools in Japan. Previous reports on their effectiveness were based on surveys conducted several months after the education. We aimed to evaluate whether cancer education for children influenced their behavioral changes in adulthood. We targeted schools where the Japan Cancer Society has conducted the programs since 2011 and the program participants are older than 21 years currently. Invitations were sent to the participants and controls who graduated one year before or after the participants, and answers were obtained using an online questionnaire. Data were collected on the willingness to undergo cancer screening, sociodemographic characteristics, healthy behaviors, and health literacy. We compared the data from the program participants with those from controls. We requested cooperation from 13 schools; however, only one agreed. The common reason for refusal was privacy concerns. In the all-boys participating school in Tokyo, there was no significant difference in background information between the cancer education (38 participants) and control (55 participants) groups. Multiple linear regression showed that healthcare or welfare education background (β = 0.25, p = 0.01) and health literacy (β = 0.24, p = 0.02) were significant predictors of cancer screening intention, while the presence of cancer education (p = 0.25) was not. Despite severe selection bias, this is the first study to examine the long-term impacts of cancer education. We found no significant impacts on the measured outcome. However, the educational content at that time differed from that of today, and the program's efficacy should not be negated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masanari Minamitani
- Department of Comprehensive radiation oncology, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsuto Katano
- Department of Radiology, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Sasaki
- Laboratory of Health Education, Graduate School of Education, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yamaguchi
- Laboratory of Health Education, Graduate School of Education, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Unit for Mental Health Promotion, Research Center for Social Science & Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiichi Nakagawa
- Department of Comprehensive radiation oncology, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yokoshima T, Sugisaki K. Cancer Awareness, Cause Recognition, and Sources of Information Among Japanese Students: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Nationwide Survey. Cancer Control 2024; 31:10732748241272477. [PMID: 39138604 PMCID: PMC11325464 DOI: 10.1177/10732748241272477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cancer education has been promoted under the Basic Plan for Cancer Education in Japan. We conducted a repeated cross-sectional survey of Japanese students to determine changes in attitudes regarding cancer over time. METHODS A nationwide survey of fifth-grade elementary students was conducted in February 2013. A repeated cross-sectional survey was conducted following previous studies with second-year high school students in February 2019, as second-year high school students in 2019 corresponded to the generation of fifth-grade students in 2013. The self-administered, multiple-choice questionnaire inquired about the awareness of cancer and its causes and sources of cancer information. Statistical analyses were performed by calculating the percentage of selections and 95% confidence intervals for each question. RESULTS The differences between values in 2019 and 2013 were examined. Responses were received from 94 schools (44.1%) in 2013 and 114 schools (52.8%) in 2019. After excluding incomplete responses, valid responses from 2213 and 3822 respondents, respectively, were analyzed. Desirable changes over time were observed in awareness. Increasing age was associated with a rise in misperceptions and a decline in desirable rather than undesirable perceptions of the causes of cancer. The Internet was a common source of information among high school students, followed by health education at school. CONCLUSION Cancer education in schools should aim to counteract misconceptions and promote positive, evidence-based information. Improving perceptions of cancer screening could increase intentions of undergoing screening. Additionally, presenting cancer information using social networking sites could help promote cancer prevention among junior high and high school students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Yokoshima
- Department of Health and Welfare, Graduate School of Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan
| | - Koshu Sugisaki
- Department of Health and Sports, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yako-Suketomo H, Katayama K, Ogihara A, Asai-Sato M. Process of developing a cervical cancer education program for female university students in a Health and Physical Education teacher training course: an action research. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:169. [PMID: 37041633 PMCID: PMC10091601 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02273-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to develop a cervical cancer education program for students and evaluate the process for female students of an HPE teacher education university who were training to become Japanese Health and Physical Education teachers. METHODS This study used Action Research (AR) methodology. In developing program, we analyzed the description of the teaching material development process, the lectures, and the students' report contents, which was the main activity in the program development. Thirty five third- and fourth-year students majoring in health promotion at a Health and Physical Education teacher education university, which trains Health and Physical Education teachers in Tokyo, Japan, participated in this study. RESULTS After a review of the prototype version of the cervical cancer education material, six out of nine reviewers determined that it can be published. In the revised cervical cancer education materials, messages from students, university lecturers, and gynecologists have been added as a column in the section on 'how to prevent cervical cancer. Analysis of the contents of the texts (16,792 characters in total) of 35 student reports resulted in the generation of 51 codes, 3 categories, and 15 subcategories. CONCLUSIONS This study reflects the intentions of female university students to contribute their knowledge to the development of educational materials on cervical cancer, which, alongside the lectures, have deepened the knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer. Based on this, the teaching material development process, lectures by experts, and students' mindset after learning about cervical cancer is reported in this study. There is a need for more educational programs on cervical cancer that are implemented through the education of female university students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Yako-Suketomo
- Japan Women's College of Physical Education, 8-19-1 Kita-Karasuyama, Setagaya-Ku, Tokyo, 157-8565, Japan
- National Cancer Center, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Kayoko Katayama
- Gunma University, 4-2 Aramaki-Cho, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8510, Japan.
- Kanagawa Cancer Center Research Institute, 2-3-2 Nakao, Asahi-Ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 241-8515, Japan.
| | - Atsushi Ogihara
- Waseda University, 2-579-15 Mikajima, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-1192, Japan
| | - Mikiko Asai-Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nihon University, 30-1 Oyaguchikamimachi, Itabashi-Ku, Tokyo, 173-0032, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Abraham O, Szela L, Feng E, Egbujor M, Gay S. Exploring Youth Perceptions About Cancer Prevention and Preferences for Education: a Qualitative Study. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2023; 38:50-59. [PMID: 34387834 PMCID: PMC8360774 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-021-02077-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to characterize adolescents' perspectives on cancer and cancer prevention and to explore their preferences for cancer education. A total of 188 middle and high school students participated in 25 focus groups. Focus groups were led by study team members and included five to ten participants each. Adolescents were asked to discuss their cancer and cancer prevention knowledge, sources of cancer education, and preferences for cancer prevention education. Focus groups were audio-recorded, and professionally transcribed. Transcripts were content and thematically analyzed by two study team members using NVivo qualitative data software. Six themes were identified in focus groups: knowledge about cancer, negative perceptions of cancer, awareness of cancer prevention, engagement in cancer prevention, facilitators and barriers for action, and preferences for cancer education. Adolescents described a wide range of cancer education sources, including friends, family, healthcare professionals, school, technology, and pamphlets. Participants associated cancer with negative emotions, such as sadness and fear. Participants expressed interest in learning about cancer and cancer prevention, but also identified barriers to engaging in preventative behaviors, such as discomfort, lack of knowledge, and lack of personal connection to cancer. Adolescents preferred learning through personal presentations, online videos, school, educational games, and social situations. Adolescence is a critical period for learning and developing healthy behaviors. Awareness of cancer and cancer prevention is crucial to lowering cancer risk in the future. To be effective, cancer education for adolescents should target specific areas of cancer prevention and address barriers to engagement in preventative behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olufunmilola Abraham
- Social and Administrative Sciences Division , University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, 777 Highland Avenue, Suite 2515, Madison, USA.
| | - Lisa Szela
- Social and Administrative Sciences Division, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Emilie Feng
- Social and Administrative Sciences Division, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Maryann Egbujor
- Social and Administrative Sciences Division, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Sommer Gay
- Social and Administrative Sciences Division, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yako-Suketomo H, Oura A, Katayama K, Saito K, Ohashi K, Navarro AM. The Effect of a Learning Partner Model-Based Program on Spreading Cancer Prevention Knowledge Using Community Health Volunteers in Japan. J Prim Care Community Health 2022; 13:21501319221110682. [PMID: 35801585 PMCID: PMC9274416 DOI: 10.1177/21501319221110682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study examines the implementation and short-term effects of a Learning
Partner Model (LPM)-based educational program on cancer prevention and
control information for community health volunteers in Japan. Methods: The program was undertaken by 3 local governments in collaboration with a
government initiative and offered a 90-min group workshop to community
health volunteers. Community health volunteers (primary participants)
recruited in turn friend or family members (secondary participants) with
whom they were prepared to share the content of the workshop with the help
of printed materials received in the workshop. We conducted
self-administered paper and pencil questionnaire surveys before, immediately
after, and 3 months after the workshop. The t-test, Fisher’s exact test,
paired t-test, and McNemar test were used to compare the 2 groups’
demographic characteristics and healthy habits at pretest. Repeated measures
ANOVA was used to compare cancer prevention knowledge between groups and
over time. Results: Of 142 participants, 107 pairs of learning partners (primary and
corresponding secondary participant) completed all questionnaires. All
primary participants and 37.4% of the secondary participants were women, and
57.9% of the learning partners were spouses. The results showed
significantly higher correct answers on the cancer-prevention knowledge
questions in the post-workshop and follow-up surveys compared to the
pre-workshop survey (P < .001). The increase in
knowledge was observed in all learning-partner groups in all 3 sites. Conclusion: The study demonstrates a promising strategy that can be adapted to the health
needs of the community beyond cancer prevention and control, building on the
efforts of local governments and government health initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Yako-Suketomo
- Japan Women's College of Physical Education, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan.,National Cancer Center, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Asae Oura
- Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kayoko Katayama
- Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan.,Kanagawa Cancer Center Research Institute, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | - Ken Ohashi
- National Cancer Center, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ana M Navarro
- University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Occa A. Who Is Scared of a Needle? An Exploration of Italian Children's Knowledge and Perceptions About the HPV Vaccine. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2021; 36:990-995. [PMID: 32130673 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-020-01726-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Receiving the HPV vaccine at a young age before being exposed to the virus is essential to improve HPV-related cancer prevention. In many countries in the world, like Italy, the HPV vaccine is offered free of charges to boys and girls aged 12-14. Despite this incentive, the HPV vaccine uptake in Italy remains low. Several interventions and campaigns have been implemented to educate parents and providers. However, children of 12-14 years old have been left out by prevention and education efforts. This study explored middle school children's knowledge and perceptions of the HPV virus and vaccine with the purpose to identify gaps and misperceptions and provide recommendations to develop educational interventions. A total of nine focus groups were conducted, and discussions were analyzed along with 171 anonymous questions collected from the children. Findings included a lack of knowledge of HPV prevention guidelines, negative emotions associated with both the HPV vaccine and vaccines in general, misperceptions between prevention and care, and the desire to receive specific information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aurora Occa
- Department of Communication, University of Kentucky, 272 Blazer Dining, 343 S. Martin Luther King Blvd, Lexington, KY, 40526-0012, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sugisaki K, Ueda S, Yako-Suketomo H, Monobe H, Ueji M, Mori R, Watanabe M, Eto T. Cancer Awareness and Understanding of Students in Japan: What Do Students Having Close Relatives with Cancer Think About the Disease? JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2021; 36:92-99. [PMID: 31418158 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-019-01602-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Students have become more familiar with cancer because of media, such as television or the Internet, reporting on celebrity cancer cases. Moreover, with Japan's increasing age and cancer rates, the number of students whose parents/relatives develop cancer is likely to increase. This study examined cancer awareness and understanding among students aged 10 to 16 or more. A cross-sectional nationwide survey was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. Cancer awareness and cancer understanding were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. We collected a total of 9139 questionnaires and excluded those with missing data. Thus, we analyzed the responses of 8701 students: 2135, 2902, and 3664 from elementary, junior, and high school, respectively. Data were analyzed using a multivariable model adjusted for gender and grade. Approximately 30% of respondents had parents/relatives with cancer. In addition, there was a significant association between having parents/relatives with cancer and cancer awareness; however, students having parents/relatives with cancer had more negative awareness (i.e., "I think cancer is scary," "I think I will get cancer in the future," and "I think cancer is preventable"). Furthermore, there was a significant association between cancer understanding and awareness. These findings suggest that cancer education could have a desirable effect on students whose parents/relatives have cancer. Further, cancer education offers benefits to students who are naive about cancer and ill prepared to cope when a family member discloses a cancer diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koshu Sugisaki
- Department of Health and Sports, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, 1398, Shimamicho, Kita-Ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture, 950-3198, Japan.
| | - Seiji Ueda
- Faculty of Liberal Arts, University of the Sacred Heart, Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroko Yako-Suketomo
- Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, Japan Women's College of Physical Education, Setagaya-ku, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Monobe
- College of Education, Yokohama National University, Yokohama City, Japan
| | - Masaru Ueji
- Faculty of Education, Ibaraki University, Mito City, Japan
| | - Ryoichi Mori
- School of Physical Education, Tokai University, Hiratsuka City, Japan
| | - Masaki Watanabe
- Faculty of Education, Tokyo Gakugei University, Koganei City, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abraham O, Rosenberger CA, LeMay SM, Bittner SJ. Adolescents' Perceptions About Cancer and Preferences for Cancer Education. Cancer Control 2021; 28:10732748211036057. [PMID: 34403277 PMCID: PMC8375333 DOI: 10.1177/10732748211036057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is one of the leading causes of death within the United States. Adolescence remains a critical stage of development in which new cognitive skills and lifestyle factors related to cancer are acquired. It is critical to understand adolescents' knowledge of cancer and preferences for receiving clear and easy-to-comprehend information about cancer and cancer prevention. The purpose of this study was to explore adolescents' perceptions of cancer and cancer risk factors and identify their preferences for receiving cancer prevention education. METHODS The survey used in this study was based on the Health Belief Model framework, the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, and the Cancer, Clear & Simple (CC&S) Curriculum. The survey evaluated adolescents' knowledge, attitudes, and health-related behaviors regarding cancer and cancer prevention among adolescents. Three Midwestern middle and high schools were recruited, and 235 students completed the survey. Survey responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS Study participants had some basic knowledge of cancer; however, only 66% recognized that individuals have control over their risk of developing cancer. Participants (95%) reported that cancer prevention was important, yet only 37.3% stated they knew how to lower their risk of getting cancer and 50% indicated that they currently try to make decisions that lower their chances of getting cancer. About 82% stated that an educational game would be a useful tool to learn about cancer and prevention. CONCLUSION Study findings indicate the need for an increase in adolescent knowledge of cancer, specifically how they can control their cancer risk, and prevention strategies through development of game-based education to teach adolescents about cancer-related topics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olufunmilola Abraham
- Social and Administrative Sciences Division, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, Madison, WI, USA
- Olufunmilola Abraham, PhD, MS, BPharm, Social and Administrative Sciences Division, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705-2222, USA.
| | - Claire A. Rosenberger
- Social and Administrative Sciences Division, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sarah M. LeMay
- Social and Administrative Sciences Division, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sarah J. Bittner
- Social and Administrative Sciences Division, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, Madison, WI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cross-cultural validation of the Cancer Stigma Scale in the general Japanese population. Palliat Support Care 2020; 19:75-81. [PMID: 32605673 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951520000486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The stigma associated with cancer has negative impacts on cancer patients as well as the general public, who have a potential risk of cancer. To the best of our knowledge, a validated measure to assess cancer stigma among the general Japanese population does not exist. METHOD We translated the Cancer Stigma Scale (CASS) - a 25-item self-administered scale to evaluate stigma related to cancer - into Japanese and examined its psychometric properties. The Japanese version of CASS (J-CASS) was validated among a sample of the general Japanese population through an online survey to validate its test-retest reliability, internal consistency, and concurrent validity. RESULTS A total of 319 responses were included in the analysis. An exploratory factor analysis eliminated two original items but showed a six-factor model (Awkwardness, Severity, Avoidance, Policy Opposition, Personal Responsibility, and Financial Discrimination), which was similar to the original scale. Cronbach's alpha for each factor was satisfactory, ranging from 0.81 to 0.91. The internal correlation coefficients were above 0.70, except for Policy Opposition. The total and subtotal scores of each factor of the J-CASS were significantly associated with respondents' age, gender, familiarity with cancer patients, and social desirability, demonstrating the scales' good concurrent validity. A substantial proportion of the participants selected "unsure" for some items of the scale, suggesting a further need for refining the scale. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS This study demonstrated that J-CASS is a reliable and valid measure for evaluating misconceptions and stigma toward cancer in the general Japanese population.
Collapse
|