Health literacy during preconception care in unmarried young-adult Japanese men and women

Abstract

This study investigated health literacy during pre-conception care (PCC) among 438 Japanese adults (18-24 years), who were enrolled survey respondents of an internet research company. Participants completed an online survey based on the PCC Health Literacy Scale (knowledge and behavior) and their knowledge of cervical cancer; a comparison between sexes was made. Participants included 401 unmarried young adults without children. Response results indicated that women had greater knowledge of the PCC and cervical cancer. However, all participants had lower correct response rates regarding folic acid intake (12.5%) and hormones in the menstrual cycle (45.6%). Low percentages (24%-27%) of participants knew about the lifetime infection rate of the virus that causes cervical cancer and the location and content of screening tests. Women were more likely to take action regarding PCC than men, but the percentages of 2 items for ‘‘safe living environment’’ (40.4% and 45.1%) and an item for ‘‘vaccinations’’ (44.6%) were lower for both sexes. Results suggest that attempts to improve young adults’ PCC health literacy should be gender-specific and should also target those with no immediate intention of becoming pregnant. Furthermore, nutrition and lifestyle literacy concerning PCC necessitate a seamless support system that links school education with lifelong learning.