Few changes shown in cancer information‐seeking behaviour among young adults in China between 2012 and 2017

Abstract

Background: The increasing incidence of cancer among young adults (18-40 years old) is of concern in China. Objectives: This study aims to examine the influence of cancer information-seeking behaviours (CISB) on young adults' worries about cancer and participation in screening. Methods: This study analysed data from two probability sample surveys conducted in 2012 and 2017 in China. The questions in the questionnaire remained the same for better comparison. The sample size was 1212 in the 2012 survey, and 2178 in the 2017 survey.Results: From 2012 to 2017, among young adults, there was a decline in cancer information seeking, diversity of cancer information sought and cancer worry, while an improvement in cancer information-seeking experience was found. Also, CISB had significant associations with cancer worry and health screening over the 5 years. Discussion: The level of young adults' cancer information seeking remains low in China, and this group is not fully aware of their potential risks of getting cancer. Conclusion:Although young adults find the experience of looking for cancer information easier in 2017, health campaigns may be necessary to encourage young adults to find out more about their cancer risks, and to participate more in health screening.

Health literacy and consumer health information

“…Drawing parallels with the studies of Akbolat et al (2023) and Delemere and Maguire (2023), Jiang and Liu (2023) analysed existing datasets focused on cancer‐related health information seeking behaviour. The authors note that the questionnaire data, collected in China in 2012 and 2017, indicate that cancer information seeking is associated with a greater willingness to undertake screening and attend check‐ups.…”