Comparisons of Factors Influencing Cancer Rescreening Intention in Middle-Aged and Elderly

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to identify and compare factors that influence the intention of middle-aged and elderly in Korea to undergo cancer screening. METHODS: The participants were 367 middle-aged individuals aged 40 to 59 and elderly older than 60 years who had been undergoing cancer screening in D-city, Korea. Data were collected using structured questionnaires that asked about knowledge, health beliefs, and satisfaction regarding cancer screening as well as cancer re-screening intention. The data were analyzed using the SPSS/WIN 25.0 program. RESULTS: Factors influencing cancer re-screening intentions differed between middle-aged and elderly populations. The influencing factors of cancer re-screening intention among middle-aged were perceived benefits, perceived barriers, and perceived severity of cancer screening, while among the elderly perceived benefits, experience with cancer screening, and the reason for cancer screening were identified. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that a customized and systemic approach considering the characteristics of middle-aged and elderly is needed to promote consistent cancer screening in middle-aged and elderly.