Health Literacy and Self-Care in Patients with Chronic Illness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol

Self-care plays a critical role in symptom recognition, management, and risk factor modification for patients with chronic illnesses. Despite its significance, self-care levels in this population are generally poor. Health literacy (HL) is pivotal for promoting effective self-care, yet the association across specific chronic illnesses remains fragmented and conflicting. Therefore, a systematic review and meta-analysis will be conducted. Inclusion criteria encompass quantitative studies involving adult patients with at least one chronic illness reporting on the association between a measure of HL and one or more elements of self-care behaviors as outcomes. Databases to be searched include PubMed, CINAHL, APA PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The studies will undergo risk of bias and certainty of evidence assessment using ROBINS-E and GRADE. Extracted data will include authors, publication date, aim(s), study location, design, sample characteristics, chronic illness type, study length, HL, and self-care measures. Understanding the link between HL and self-care can aid healthcare providers in implementing strategies to enhance health-promoting behaviors, contributing valuable insights to the scientific community and fostering nuanced discussions. This protocol ensures methodological transparency, stimulates discourse, and paves the way for informed interventions to improve overall health outcomes.