Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although 14 years have passed since the Great East Japan Earthquake and Fukushima nuclear accident, approximately 40% of Japanese citizens still believe that the current radiation exposure levels in Fukushima residents will likely or very likely cause genetic effects. In response, the Japanese Ministry of the Environment launched the 'GU-GU-RU' project to share accurate information widely, and eliminate discrimination and prejudice regarding the health effect of radiation. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the 'Radiation College' of the 'GU-GU-RU' project, as an educational content outside the national school curricula, in addressing improper information on health effects of radiation, which could potentially provoke stigma. METHODS: Interviews were conducted with 14 high school students who participated in the 'Radiation College' seminar and four of their parents, regarding their impressions of radiation and matters related to the 2011 Fukushima nuclear accident. Interview data were analysed using the contents analysis, evaluating both the content and context of each individual's statements. RESULTS: Scientific information on health effects of radiation, especially genetic effects, helped students recognise related discrimination and prejudice, and form their own opinions. Additionally, students' self-awareness was observed in discrimination and prejudice existing beyond radiation issues, in their consciousness of their own utterances, recognition of the importance of interpreting information critically, and viewing issues from multiple perspectives. Additionally, secondary effects occurred as students shared the seminar content with their families, leading to changes in family awareness and subsequent behaviour. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report evaluating the efficacy of the 'Radiation College' seminar of the 'GU-GU-RU' project. The findings can be viewed as 'long-term follow-up initiatives and their effects' following a nuclear disaster from the public health and education perspectives. This type of seminar, containing content targeting a different generation, could be an effective approach to address various forms of emerging social discrimination and prejudice.