Factors associated with radiation risk perception among Japanese university students

After the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station accident, various information about radiation circulated throughout Japan, leading to diverse perceptions regarding the situation in Fukushima. These perceptions contributed to the social challenges faced by the residents of Fukushima at the time, including prejudice and discrimination. This heightened concern about radiation exposure, particularly among younger generations who were considering marriage or starting families. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the present status of radiation risk perception among university students in Japan and the factors associated with radiation risk perception among these students. A questionnaire survey was administered to university students throughout Japan. We collected demographic information as well as queried their perception of radiation risk (delayed health effects and genetic effects). The results showed that approximately 60% and 40% of respondents believed that delayed effects and genetic effects would occur among residents of Fukushima, respectively. Additionally, having a university major other than studying radiation techniques and living in western Japan were associated with these perceptions of risk. In the future, enhancing risk communication, especially among young populations in western Japan, is necessary to dispel anxiety about the risks from radiation exposure.