Stable Iodine Knowledge and Preferred Information Sources Among Parents in Fukushima Prefecture After the 2011 Nuclear Disaster
Yoshitaka Nishikawa, Chiaki Suzuki, Fumiya Oguro, Aya Goto, Masaharu TsubokuraAbstract
Background
Knowledge regarding stable iodine prophylaxis among populations affected by the Fukushima nuclear accident remains poorly characterized. We assessed knowledge levels and preferred information sources among parents of thyroid examination participants aged ≤18 years.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study (April 2019 and December 2022) among parents of thyroid examination participants. Knowledge was assessed using 3 items: role recognition, distribution method awareness, and effectiveness duration (score 0-3). Preferred information providers for future emergencies were collected.
Results
Among 1,116 participants (mean child age 12.3 years, 8.1-11.8 years post-disaster), the mean knowledge score was 1.66/3 (SD = 0.97). Only 22.1% showed high knowledge (score = 3), while 42.1% had low knowledge (score 0-1). Although two-thirds (67.8%) correctly recognized stable iodine’s role, distribution method awareness was most limited: 54.3% lacked awareness of how stable iodine is distributed. Regarding effectiveness duration, 51.2% correctly answered. Health professionals were largely preferred as information providers (90.5%).
Conclusions
Substantial knowledge gaps existed regarding stable iodine prophylaxis, particularly distribution methods. Health professionals, as the most trusted information source, may play a key role in addressing these gaps by communicating preparedness information to communities.