Health literacy and cardiovascular disease prevention: a systematic scoping review protocol

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Communication
• Cardiovascular Disease Research

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading global cause of mortality.
• Existing literature on CVD prevention and health literacy is often siloed, examining only specific aspects of prevention.
• A unified understanding of health literacy's role in comprehensive CVD prevention is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a scoping review methodology for investigating the relationship between health literacy and cardiovascular disease (CVD) preventive practices and knowledge in lay populations.
• To synthesize existing research on health literacy and primary CVD prevention, addressing the fragmented nature of current literature.
• To provide a comprehensive overview contrasting with segmented reviews.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review design was selected as the most appropriate study methodology.
• A systematic search will be conducted across multiple databases (MEDLINE, Global Health, PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL) on January 31, 2022.
• Inclusion criteria focus on studies in English, measuring health literacy and primary CVD prevention in lay populations, with rigorous screening and conflict resolution processes.

Main Results:

• This section is not applicable as the abstract describes a study protocol, not results.

Conclusions:

• This scoping review protocol outlines a systematic approach to consolidate fragmented research on health literacy and cardiovascular disease prevention.
• The findings are expected to inform a more holistic understanding of health literacy's impact on CVD prevention strategies.
• Dissemination will occur through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.