biostudies-literatureTang ZNational Social Science Fund of China261https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC12534962biostudies-literatureUnknown24(1)<h4>Context</h4>Global aging and rising chronic disease burden have made hospice and palliative care (HPC) a healthcare priority. China has initiated three rounds of HPC pilot programs covering two-thirds of its cities, yet public utilization remains low. Understanding public knowledge, attitude, and preference (KAP) toward HPC is essential to overcoming adoption barriers and fostering acceptance.<h4>Objectives</h4>To empirically evaluate public KAP for HPC, pinpoint influencing factors, and offer targeted strategies to address challenges.<h4>Methods</h4>This cross-sectional study assessed public KAP using the culturally adapted Public Knowledge, Attitude, and Preference of HPC Scale (P-KAPHPCs). Regression analysis was applied to identify factors associated with KAP. A structural equationBMC palliative careHow does the general public perceive hospice and palliative care? -an empirical study from China.PMC1253496224BRK020Tang ZFan YJing LLu YZhang XTang YYe ZfalseHow does the general public perceive hospice and palliative care? -an empirical study from China.<h4>Context</h4>Global aging and rising chronic disease burden have made hospice and palliative care (HPC) a healthcare priority. China has initiated three rounds of HPC pilot programs covering two-thirds of its cities, yet public utilization remains low. Understanding public knowledge, attitude, and preference (KAP) toward HPC is essential to overcoming adoption barriers and fostering acceptance.<h4>Objectives</h4>To empirically evaluate public KAP for HPC, pinpoint influencing factors, and offer targeted strategies to address challenges.<h4>Methods</h4>This cross-sectional study assessed public KAP using the culturally adapted Public Knowledge, Attitude, and Preference of HPC Scale (P-KAPHPCs). Regression analysis was applied to identify factors associated with KAP. A structural equation2025-01-01T00:00:00Z2025 Oct2026-06-04T14:18:22.31Z2026-06-02T03:08:40.33ZS-EPMC125349624110788910.1186/s12904-025-01891-3