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Ishizuki S, Hirano M. Online health information searching and health literacy among middle-aged and older adults: A cross-sectional study. Nurs Health Sci 2024; 26:e13098. [PMID: 38369320 DOI: 10.1111/nhs.13098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Given the rapid increase in health information available, health literacy is now more important than ever when searching for health information online. Furthermore, health literacy and online health information searching are reported to be associated with support from others. In this study, we examined the associations of health literacy and social support with online health information searching among individuals in their 50s and 60s. Between March and May 2022, an anonymous self-administered questionnaire was administered among 750 middle-aged and older adults (age 50-69) living in northern Japan. The questionnaire items included personal characteristics, frequency of online health information searching, health literacy domains, and social support. A total of 237 respondents answered all the items (response rate: 31.6%). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that communicative health literacy was significantly associated with searching for information about illnesses and health promotion, while critical health literacy was significantly associated with searching for information about medical institutions. Controlling for personal characteristics, health literacy, was associated with online health information searching, suggesting that improving health literacy is important in a digital and information society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiho Ishizuki
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Michiyo Hirano
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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Tilahun D, Gezahegn A, Tegenu K, Fenta B. Functional Health Literacy in Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases: Cross-Sectional Study in Ethiopia. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:1967-1974. [PMID: 34040428 PMCID: PMC8141385 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s304007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study assessed functional health literacy and associated factors among adult patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in Ethiopia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on 410 respondents from May 1 to July 1, 2020, using a functional health literacy questionnaire consisting of 14 items that covers three conceptually distinct functional health literacy domains: having sufficient information to manage my health, ability to find good health information and understand health information well enough to know what to do. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 23. Data were collected by exit face-to-face interview using an interviewer administered and pre-tested questionnaire. Statistical significance of associated variables had been declared based on the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with its 95% CI and p-value <0.05. RESULTS Adequate functional health literacy was determined in 55.4% of CVD patients understanding health information whereas inadequate functional health literacy was determined in 53.9% participants for finding health information and in 50.5% of them having sufficient information to manage my health. Educational status was found to have a statistically significant association across the three domains. CONCLUSION The functional health literacy level of CVD patients varied by domain. Educational status of the participant is significantly associated with the three domains of functional health literacy whereas household monthly income and number of information sources are significantly associated with having sufficient information and the ability to find good health information. The findings indicate the need to streamline medical communication that improves the functional health literacy of CVD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desalew Tilahun
- Nursing School, Faculty of Health Science, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Kenenisa Tegenu
- Nursing School, Faculty of Health Science, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Belete Fenta
- Midwifery School, Faculty of Health Science, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Chung VC, Wong CH, Zhong CC, Tjioe YY, Leung TH, Griffiths SM. Traditional and complementary medicine for promoting healthy ageing in WHO Western Pacific Region: Policy implications from utilization patterns and current evidence. Integr Med Res 2021; 10:100469. [PMID: 32874912 PMCID: PMC7452244 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.100469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With increasing burden of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCD), ageing becomes a global public health concern, and the World Health Organization Western Pacific Region has no exception. To address the NCD challenge, priority should be given to promote healthy ageing across the life-course. As traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) is popular within the Region, it is of policy interest to explore possibilities of applying T&CM for promoting healthy ageing. METHODS We first summarized sources of clinical evidence supporting the use of T&CM. We then searched publications through MEDLINE from its inception to April 2020 to identify studies focusing on the perception of T&CM among older people. Finally, taking current evidence base and patient choice into account, we generated policy recommendations for of integrating T&CM into health systems. RESULT Experiences from countries with different income levels suggested that promoting evidence-based T&CM as self-care modalities would be the most efficient way of maximizing impact among the older population, especially via a train the trainer approach. Meanwhile, popularity of natural products in the Region mandates policy makers to implement appropriate regulation and quality assurance, and to establish pharmacovigilance to detect potential harm. The role of pharmacists in advising patients on self-medication using natural products needs to be strengthened. CONCLUSION Policy-makers will benefit from continued global dialogue and sharing of experience in T&CM policy development and implementation. Harmonizing regulatory frameworks for natural products at regional and global levels, including mutual recognition of regulatory approval, to improve standards and protect patients could be a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent C.H. Chung
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Charlene H.L. Wong
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Claire C.W. Zhong
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Yan Yin Tjioe
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Ting Hung Leung
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Sian M. Griffiths
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Diviani N, Obrenovic J, Montoya CL, Karcz K. Disentangling health information appraisal competence: Results from an interdisciplinary scoping review and online consultation among Swiss stakeholders. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235474. [PMID: 32614869 PMCID: PMC7332022 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ability to critically appraise health information-often referred to as critical health literacy-is recognized as a crucial component of health literacy. Yet to date, it is not clear what specific abilities are needed to adequately accomplish this task, thereby hindering both its assessment and the development and evaluation of related interventions. By systematically building on past research, this study aimed to operationally define the concept of health information appraisal competence. METHODS We systematically searched five scholarly databases to identify the conceptualizations and operational definitions of information appraisal in different disciplines. The resulting operationalization was subsequently validated through an online consultation exercise among 85 Swiss stakeholders. RESULTS Ninety-four publications were included in the review to the point of saturation. We extracted 646 skills, attitudes, and knowledge for health information appraisal. We then collated overlapping or duplicate statements, which produced a list of 43 unique statements belonging to six emergent themes or core competences: (1) basic competence, (2) predisposition, (3) identification competence, (4) critical evaluation competence, (5) selection competence, and (6) application competence. The consultation exercise enriched the operationalization of some of the core competences and confirmed the importance of all competences. Most skills, attitudes, and knowledge, however, were assigned low feasibility by the stakeholders. CONCLUSIONS This study was the first attempt to systematically operationalize health information appraisal competence. From a theoretical perspective, it sheds light on an understudied, health literacy domain, thus contributing to clarity around the concept. From a practical perspective, it provides a strong theoretical basis for the development of a tool to measure health information appraisal competence. This could be used routinely as a screening tool, as an outcome measure for public health interventions, or to identify citizens who are most at risk. Furthermore, it will provide support for the development of future interventions to build health information appraisal competence in the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Diviani
- University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Katarzyna Karcz
- University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland
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Gallego G, Gugnani S, Armour M, Smith CA, Chang E. Attitudes and factors involved in decision-making around complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) by older Australians: A qualitative study. Eur J Integr Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2019.100930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Rheault H, Coyer F, Jones L, Bonner A. Health literacy in Indigenous people with chronic disease living in remote Australia. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:523. [PMID: 31349842 PMCID: PMC6659262 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4335-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Health literacy is strongly associated with health outcomes and is important for health policy and service delivery. Low health literacy was reported in 59% of Australian adults, however, there is no national data on the health literacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) peoples. The ATSI population in Australia experience a notable gap in health outcomes compared with non-Indigenous Australians which is due, in part to a higher prevalence of chronic diseases. The health outcome gap is more pronounced in rural and remote locations. This study aims to establish the health literacy profile of ATSI adults with chronic disease living in remote North-West Queensland Australia, and to investigate associations between the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) domains and self-reported chronic disease and demographic characteristics. Methods Using a cross-sectional design, 200 ATSI adults with a diagnosis of chronic disease/s (cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease and/or chronic kidney disease) were recruited from two sites with the assistance of Aboriginal Health Workers. Data were collected using the HLQ, a multidimensional 44 item instrument to assess nine domains of health literacy. Demographic and health data were also collected. Analysis of variance using backwards modelling was used to determine predictors of health literacy. Results Participants were mostly male (53.5%) and aged between 19 and 89 years. The most prevalent chronic disease was cardiovascular disease (74%) followed by diabetes (67.5%). More than half (62%) had two or more chronic diseases. There was at least one independent predicator for each of the nine health literacy domains. Age, number of chronic diseases, gender, and level of education were all highly significant predictors of health literacy. Conclusion Improved health literacy will enable individuals to take an active role in their health. Understanding the health literacy of ATSI adults is a crucial first step. Our findings can assist Australian healthcare organisations to review their health literacy responsiveness and examine ways to improve patients’ needs and health capabilities to better support people to engage in effective self-management for chronic diseases. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12913-019-4335-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haunnah Rheault
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia. .,Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Unit, The Prince Charles Hospital, Rode Road, Chermside, Brisbane, QLD, 4032, Australia.
| | - Fiona Coyer
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Intensive Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lee Jones
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ann Bonner
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Kidney Health Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Australia.,NHMRC Chronic Kidney Disease Centre of Research Excellence, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Smith CA, Chang E, Gallego G, Khan A, Armour M, Balneaves LG. An education intervention to improve decision making and health literacy among older Australians: a randomised controlled trial. BMC Geriatr 2019; 19:129. [PMID: 31064336 PMCID: PMC6505289 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-019-1143-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background National policies seek to involve older Australian’s in decisions regarding their care; however, research has found varying levels of decision self-efficacy and health literacy skills. An increasing number of older Australians use complementary medicine (CM). We examined the effectiveness of a CM educational intervention delivered using a web or DVD plus booklet format to increase older adults’ decision self-efficacy and health literacy. Methods A randomised controlled trial was conducted. We recruited individuals aged over 65 years living in retirement villages or participating in community groups, in Sydney Australia. Participants were randomly allocated to receive a CM education intervention delivered using a website or DVD plus booklet versus booklet only. The primary outcome was decision self-efficacy. A secondary outcome included the Preparation for Decision-Making scale and health literacy. Outcomes were collected at 3 weeks, and 2 months from baseline, and analysed using an adjusted ANOVA, or repeated measures ANOVA. Result We randomised 153 participants. Follow up at 3 weeks and 2 months was completed by 131 participants. There was a 14% (n = 22) attrition rate. At the end of the intervention, we found no significant differences between groups for decision self-efficacy (mean difference (MD) 3.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) -2.0 to 9.6 p = 0.20), there were no differences between groups on nine health literacy domains, and the Preparation for Decision-Making scale. Over 80% of participants in both groups rated the content as excellent or good. Conclusion Decision self-efficacy improved for participants, but did not differ between groups. Decision self-efficacy and health literacy outcomes were not influenced by the delivery of education using a website, DVD or booklet. Participants found the resources useful, and rated the content as good or excellent. CM Web or DVD and booklet resources have the potential for wider application. Trial registration The trial was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN (ACTRN12616000135415). The trial was registered on 5 February 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A Smith
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2571, Australia.
| | - Esther Chang
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Gisselle Gallego
- School of Medicine, The University of Notre Dame, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Afshan Khan
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2571, Australia
| | - Mike Armour
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2571, Australia
| | - Lynda G Balneaves
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Manitoba, Canada
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Smith CA, Chang E, Gallego G. Complementary medicine use and health literacy in older Australians. Complement Ther Med 2019; 42:53-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2018.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Harnett S, Morgan-Daniel J. Health Literacy Considerations for Users of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. JOURNAL OF CONSUMER HEALTH ON THE INTERNET 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/15398285.2018.1415593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Harnett
- Borland Health Sciences Library, University of Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Jane Morgan-Daniel
- Health Science Center Library, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Smith CA, Chang E, Gallego G, Balneaves LG. An education intervention to improve health literacy and decision making about supporting self-care among older Australians: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Trials 2017; 18:441. [PMID: 28950888 PMCID: PMC5615792 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-017-2182-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older Australians are high consumers of complementary and alternative medicines (CM). To help older people to take an active role in their health, we will develop and evaluate a novel educational intervention to support decision self-efficacy, and improve health literacy skills. METHODS The primary hypothesis is that participants receiving a web/DVD plus booklet intervention compared with a booklet-only group will demonstrate an increase in decision self-efficacy. This study is a randomised controlled trial. One hundred and sixty-eight people aged 65 years and older will be recruited from community settings comprising retirement villages and community groups, based in Sydney, Australia. Participants will be randomly allocated to either the education intervention delivered by the Internet or a DVD plus booklet versus a control group (booklet only). The primary outcome measure is CM decision self-efficacy. Secondary outcomes are health literacy, knowledge and attitudes, and change in health-seeking behaviour. Participants' views on the ease of using the resources, the length of the modules, the amount of information, and participant understanding of the modules will be assessed. Outcomes will be collected on completion of the intervention at 3 weeks, and at a 2-month follow up from trial entry. DISCUSSION This trial has the potential to improve CM health literacy in older Australians. There are no educational resources designed to support decision self-efficacy and improve health literacy amongst older people related to CM. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR), ACTRN12616000135415 . Registered on 5 February 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A. Smith
- National Institute of Complementary Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2571 Australia
| | - Esther Chang
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2571 Australia
| | - Gisselle Gallego
- School of Medicine, The University of Notre Dame, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lynda G. Balneaves
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 89 Curry Place, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2 Canada
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