Willingness to pay for suicide prevention in Japan

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Economics
• Sociology

Background:

• Suicide remains a significant public health concern in Japan, necessitating effective prevention strategies.
• Understanding public financial support for suicide prevention is crucial for resource allocation and policy development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the willingness to pay (WTP) for suicide prevention among Japanese taxpayers.
• To identify factors influencing WTP for reducing suicide mortality risk.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based questionnaire survey was employed.
• A double-bounded dichotomous choice contingent valuation method was used.
• Data from 956 participants were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The median willingness to pay (WTP) to reduce suicide mortality risk by 25% was JPY 1,572 ($13.67 USD).
• Being married was significantly associated with higher willingness to pay.
• WTP for suicide mortality risk reduction may be lower compared to other risks like traffic accidents.

Conclusions:

• The study quantifies public financial commitment towards suicide prevention in Japan.
• Marital status is a key demographic factor influencing WTP for suicide prevention.
• Findings suggest a potential need for targeted communication to enhance public valuation of suicide prevention.