Japanese childhood cancer survivors’ readiness for care as adults: a cross-sectional survey using the transition scales

Abstract

Background

Childhood cancer survivors' (CCSs') readiness for adult care has not been evaluated in Japan. We conducted a survey to examine transition barriers and facilitators in CCSs and compared the results to those of CCSs in Canada.

Methods

Participants were selected from the Heart Link mutual-aid health insurance membership directory and the Millefeuille Childhood Cancer Frontiers. We conducted a cross-sectional survey (self-report questionnaire) via mail, using the Transition Scales.

Results

In total, 268 questionnaires were collected by January 2016 (response rate: 42.5%). After confirming the reliability and validity of the Transition Scales, we analyzed 242 questionnaires. After excluding questionnaires for CCSs aged <15 or >26 years, we compared scales scores between Japanese and Canadian CCSs. Relative to that of Japanese CCSs, Canadian CCSs showed greater cancer-related worry for 4 items (p < 0.001) and preference for self-management in 3 items (p < 0.001). Japanese CCSs showed greater preference for self-management, relative to that of Canadian CCSs, in 5 items (p < 0.001). In the expectation scale, Japanese CCSs showed lower levels of expectation concerning adult care in 6 of 12 items (p < 0.001). Relative to that of Canadian CCSs, a significantly higher number of Japanese CCSs preferred to visit the same doctor for long-term care as adults (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The results confirmed the reliability and validity of the Transition Scales and showed that Japanese CCSs expressed fewer cancer concerns, but a higher number of Japanese CCSs preferred to visit the same doctor for long-term care as adults. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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