Health Literacy Among Adults of Ahmedabad - An Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Health literacy involves applying skills to health situations such as reading, listening, analytical and decision making skills. Physiotherapists spend considerable time with patients so they can deliver health information and can engage patients in preventive activities, enhance self management and change risky lifestyle behaviours. Aim of the study was to assess health literacy in adults of Ahmedabad by using Health literacy instrument for adults(HELIA).

Methodology: Adults from community of Ahmedabad, aged 18-65 years, understand English and Hindi, were included using convenience sampling. Google-form was generated to collect age, gender, profession and HELIA. Descriptive statistics and chi square analysis was done by using SPSS.

Results: 265 participants with mean age of (31.96 ± 12.28) years completed the study including 144 females and 121 males consisting 36.1% healthcare professional. Mean Health literacy was (54.28 ± 15.61). Chi square analysis between health literacy and health care profession shows rho = 260.1, p = 0.302.

Conclusion: Health literacy level is low in adults of Ahmedabad and has no significant association with being in health care profession. Study indicates need for attention to health education and promotion programme. Planning and implementing educational interventions using media or simple training method are recommended to improve health literacy in adults of Ahmedabad.