Factors Related to Cancer Screening Behaviors of Junior High and High School Teachers in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Suzuki, Kumi; Minamiguchi, Yoko; Yamanaka, Masako; Hayashi, Naoko; Doi, Tomoki; Tsuda, Yasuhiro

doi:10.31557/APJCP.2026.27.8.2891

Factors Related to Cancer Screening Behaviors of Junior High and High School Teachers in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Document Type : Research Articles

Authors

¹ Faculty of Nursing, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan.

² Faculty of Health Care, Tenri University, Tenri, Nara, Japan.

³ Graduate School of Nursing Science, St. Luke’s International University, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.

10.31557/APJCP.2026.27.8.2891

Abstract

Background: Because some cancers can be detected early in their progression, regular screenings should be promoted to ensure timely diagnosis. In Japan, cancer education has become compulsory in junior and high schools; however, research on the cancer screening behaviors of teachers is limited. This study aimed to clarify the factors related to cancer screening behaviors among junior and high school teachers in Japan. Methods: This cross-sectional study collected data through an online survey that included questions about nationally recommended screenings for lung, colon, gastric, breast, and cervical cancers, as well as items on the Cancer Awareness Measure survey. Descriptive statistics were used for socio-demographic data, survey information, and cancer screening behavior. Chi-square tests and t tests were conducted to examine the relationships among these variables. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors influencing screening behavior. Result: The respondents were 316 junior high school teachers and 463 high school teachers (238 females, 541 males; average age 48.2 years; average teaching experience 23.5 years). Approximately 48%–64% of participants regularly underwent screening for all cancers. The results showed that screening rates increased with age. Common factors influencing the uptake of lung, colorectal, gastric, and breast cancer screening included: the target age group for cancer screening, the type of school, and recognition of cancer warning signs. Participants who were within the target screening age group, who worked at national or public schools, and who had higher recognition of cancer warning signs were more likely to undergo cancer screening. Conclusion: The results of this study will aid the development of interventions for Japanese teachers that will increase their participation in cancer screenings. Programs that increase knowledge of cancer warning signs, as well as those that specifically target younger teachers and those in private schools, will be particularly useful.

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