Cancer risk awareness and concrete plans boosted gastric screening during COVID-19

MedicalXpress | mai 15, 2026

A study conducted by researchers at University of Tsukuba revealed that individuals with higher cancer-related health literacy, perceived susceptibility to gastric cancer, and encouragement from family members or health care providers demonstrated stronger intentions to undergo gastric cancer screening, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. These intentions were significantly associated with subsequent screening participation. In contrast, while fear of COVID-19 increased screening intention in the short term, over time it could suppress screening behavior.