Ikigai and use of preventive healthcare services in Germany

Objective

This study examined the association between ikigai (a Japanese concept akin to purpose in life or a rationale for existence) and use of preventive healthcare services.

Methods

Data were gathered in August and September of 2023 from a quota-based sample of 5000 individuals living in Germany (18 to 74 years). This sampling ensured representation across gender, age groups, and federal states to reflect the adult population of Germany. The recently validated German version of the Ikigai-9 scale (Ikigai-9-G) was used to assess ikigai. Outcomes were regular cancer screenings, flu vaccination, and routine health check-ups. Multiple logistic regressions were used.

Results

Ikigai was associated with higher odds of regular use of preventive healthcare services (regular flu vaccinations: OR = 1.01, 95 % CI: 1.002 to 1.02; regular cancer screenings: OR = 1.01, 95 % CI: 1.004 to 1.02; routine health check-ups: OR = 1.02, 95 % CI: 1.01 to 1.03), adjusting for sociodemographic, lifestyle, and health-related factors. The association between ikigai and preventive healthcare was not moderated by gender, age, or education.

Conclusion

Higher ikigai is associated with preventive health measures, independent of key covariates. These findings are consistent with the literature on ikigai and better health-related outcomes and subjective well-being. Ikigai may help point to new ways to counter the low use of preventive services in Germany.