Associations between GoSmart Channel, health literacy and health behaviours in adolescents: A population-based study

Integrating digital and interactive approaches in adolescent health literacy: a comprehensive review

Adolescent health literacy is critical for navigating the complex landscape of modern healthcare and making informed decisions that influence long-term health outcomes. This comprehensive review synthesizes current research on integrating digital tools and interactive learning approaches to enhance health literacy among adolescents. We explore the use of digital technologies, such as mobile apps and virtual reality, which cater to the preferences of this tech-savvy generation, offering personalized and accessible health information. The effectiveness of interactive learning methodologies, including simulations and role-playing, is also examined, highlighting their potential to increase engagement and retention of health-related knowledge. We address the importance of mental health literacy and the role of social media and peer education in disseminating health information effectively. Our review identifies gaps in the current literature, particularly the need for studies that consider long-term outcomes and the impact of socioeconomic and cultural factors on health literacy initiatives. We propose a multidimensional approach to health literacy education that incorporates innovative technologies and interactive methods to meet the diverse needs of adolescents in various contexts. The findings suggest that an integrated approach, including digital and critical health literacy, is essential for developing comprehensive health education programs that are both informative and engaging for adolescents.

Associations between GoSmart Channel, health literacy and health behaviours in adolescents: A population-based study

BACKGROUND

Health literacy is essential in the promotion of healthy lifestyle habits and chronic disease prevention.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the health literacy level among Hong Kong adolescents; to evaluate the association between access of an online health information platform (GoSmart Channel) and health literacy level; and to examine the association between health literacy level and various unhealthy behaviours.

DESIGN

This study recruited students from 10 local secondary schools in Hong Kong to assess the health literacy level among adolescents.

SETTINGS AND PARTICIPANTS

Participants were required to complete a self-administered questionnaire on health behaviours and health literacy using the Health Literacy Measure for Adolescents (HELMA). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multivariate regression modelling.

RESULTS

A total of 777 responses were collected. Overall, most (74.4%) of the adolescents in Hong Kong have limited health literacy (HELMA score <66). The majority (63.7%) of adolescents relied on their parents for health information, while 11.4% of the respondents sought information from the GoSmart Channel. The intervention of GoSmart Channel was significantly associated with better health literacy in almost all aspects among adolescents. Desired levels of health literacy were significantly associated with better perceived health (adjusted odds ratio: 2.04, p = .001) and negatively associated with a range of unhealthy and risky behaviours including unhealthy dietary habits, poor hygienic measures and physical inactivity.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

This study highlights the importance of improving health literacy among Hong Kong adolescents and the potential of technology-based interventions. The findings suggest the need for continued efforts to promote health literacy and healthy behaviours among adolescents, especially given the limited health literacy levels observed in the study.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

Members of the GoSmart.Net Built-on Project patient and public involvement and engagement group advised about survey development.