Health Literacy and Preventive Health Behaviors Among Hispanics: Path Analysis Approach

Health literacy is crucial for understanding and acting on health information. Inadequate health literacy is associated with poor health outcomes, particularly in underserved groups like Hispanics.

This descriptive, cross-sectional study explored the relationship between health literacy, demographics, and adherence to preventive health behaviors among Hispanic adults in spring 2021. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling in Southern California. Data were collected using the Newest Vital Sign and a self-administered health survey, with path analysis assessing health literacy and adherence predictors.

Among 149 adults, the model explained 62% of the variance in health literacy and 56.1% in adherence. Higher education (β = .74) and speaking English at home (β = .25) were statistically significant predictors of greater health literacy, which was strongly associated with better adherence (β = .51). Employment status negatively affected adherence (β = -.28, p = .001).

Organizational resources, education, and language proficiency are crucial for enhancing health literacy and promoting preventive behaviors. Tailored bilingual programs and educational initiatives should be prioritized to address these disparities.