Decision-making structure and nudges for Japanese pig farmers to implement biosecurity measures against classical...

This study evaluated the decision-making structure that influence pig farmers to implement biosecurity measures to prevent classical swine fever (CSF) outbreaks and identified sociological factors affecting implementation in order to explore effective intervention strategies.

A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted among pig farmers in Japan to collect data on farm and farmer characteristics, the implementation of biosecurity measures, and farmers' awareness of and motivation to carry out such measures. Questionnaires were distributed to 516 farms across 15 prefectures, and the analysis was conducted using data from 228 farms with valid responses. Structural equation modeling was applied to quantitatively analyze the decision-making process based on the knowledge, attitude, practice, and capacity (KAP-C) and the protection motivation theory (PMT) frameworks. In addition, relationships between farm characteristics and biosecurity measure implementation, as well as factors derived from nudge theory, were evaluated.

As a result, the latent variable Capacity was not identified in the KAP-C model, and Knowledge was associated with Attitudes (β = 0.99), which was also with Practice (β = 0.83). Similarly, in the PMT model, Threat (β = 0.43) and Coping (β = 0.56) appraisals were associated with Action. In both models, risk and threat perceptions were associated with Practice. In contrast, farms with higher capacity, such as large-scale farms (p < 0.001) and those managed by younger owners (p = 0.050), had higher rates of biosecurity implementation. Farms with a history of CSF outbreaks also demonstrated higher implementation rates (p < 0.001). Guidance from veterinary clinicians (ρ= 0.24, p < 0.001) and Livestock Hygiene Service Centers (LHSCs; ρ = 0.16, p = 0.014), integrating measures into routine farm work positively affected biosecurity practices, and commitment such as goal setting (ρ = 0.46, p < 0.001) and community-based engagement (ρ = 0.35, p < 0.001) positively influenced the implementation of biosecurity measures.

Farmers may respond effectively to messages in which veterinary clinicians and LHSCs collaborate to clearly present effective biosecurity measures and disease threats, foster concern for pigs, and encourage participation in biosecurity practices at the community level.