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Risks associated with low functional health literacy in an Australian population.
Robert J Adams1, Sarah L Appleton, Catherine L Hill
1Health Observatory, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, and Rheumatology Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia. robert.adams@adelaide.edu.au
The Medical Journal of Australia
|November 17, 2009
Summary
Many Australians have limited functional health literacy (FHL), increasing health risks. This study highlights FHL disparities and its impact on healthcare access and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Literacy Research
- Sociomedical Sciences
Background:
- Functional health literacy (FHL) is crucial for effective healthcare.
- Limited FHL poses risks to individual health and healthcare systems.
- Understanding FHL prevalence in Australia is essential for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the level of functional health literacy in an Australian population.
- To identify risk factors associated with varying levels of FHL.
- To explore the implications of FHL on health status and healthcare utilization.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional random population survey of 2824 South Australians (aged 15+).
- Utilized the Newest Vital Sign tool to measure FHL.
- Assessed self-reported general health status and health service use.
Main Results:
- 24% of respondents were at risk of limited FHL, with 21% having a high likelihood of inadequate FHL.
- Inadequate FHL increased with age and was linked to lower education, income, non-English speaking background, and poorer health status.
- Individuals with inadequate FHL reported higher rates of chronic diseases (diabetes, cardiac disease, stroke) and were less likely to attend regular doctor visits.
Conclusions:
- A significant portion of the Australian population likely experiences limited health literacy.
- Limited FHL presents a substantial risk to effective healthcare delivery and community health improvement.
- Addressing health literacy disparities is critical for equitable and effective healthcare outcomes.
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