Factors Influencing Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviour Towards Engaging with Advance Care Planning: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Chinese Diaspora.

Abstract

Objective: Advance care planning (ACP) is increasingly recognized as a public health priority globally, with cultural aspects influencing people's knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours toward ACP. Despite being one of the largest diaspora groups, the Chinese community remains under-researched in this area. This study aims to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and health behaviours related to ACP among Chinese diaspora within a region in the United Kingdom.

Method: A cross-sectional online survey based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour was conducted with 284 Chinese adults recruited from four social and voluntary organisations in the United Kingdom.

Results: The study found low awareness (15%) and knowledge (mean score: 2.26 ± 1.78) of ACP, with less than 5% of the participants engaging with ACP. This contrasted with participants' attitudes (17.24 ± 2.57) and behavioural intention (14.93 ± 3.26) toward ACP, which were generally positive. Behavioural intention was the strongest predictor of engaging with ACP (OR 3.29, 95% CI: 1.35-8.02, p = 0.01). Participants with previous end-of-life care experience had a better understanding of ACP; older age and higher knowledge of ACP were associated with more positive attitudes. Cultural beliefs associated with the level of family involvement, legal aspects, and the availability of information in one's first language was significant influences on engagement with ACP.

Conclusions: Despite low awareness and engagement with ACP among the Chinese diaspora, positive attitudes and behavioural intention suggest potential for increased engagement. This could be achieved through culturally tailored interventions that address cultural influences and complexity surrounding legal requirements. Further research is needed to develop and test such interventions.