Introduction / Rationale: Health literacy refers to the ability of patients to identify and use reliable and useful information in order to manage their own health. It is thought that a decline in the health literacy of cancer patients can lead to anxiety due to a lack of communication, such as being unable to convey important information to doctors or ask appropriate questions, and can affect decisions such as treatment options. However, there is a lack of research on the health literacy of cancer patients in Japan.
Objectives: This study aimed to obtain insights into the health literacy of cancer patients undergoing treatment and the factors associated with health literacy.
Methods / Approach: A questionnaire survey was conducted to assess the health literacy of cancer patients. The survey included background factors such as physical condition, lifestyle, and progress in cancer treatment.
Results / Practice Implications: Factors related to health literacy among cancer patients included trust in their family doctor, the duration of their cancer treatment, and their general health.
Conclusion / Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: The physical condition of cancer patients fluctuates greatly depending on the state of their cancer treatment, and this also causes changes in their health literacy. It is important for other healthcare professionals, including occupational therapists, to devise communication methods based on the patient's overall condition and to deepen the patient's understanding of rehabilitation. This research was conducted with the support of JSPS KAKENHI Grant Number JP23K09528.