Health literacy and the Pacific: A scoping literature review of journal articles

Health literacy is understudied in the Pacific region and among Pacific diasporas globally. The study goal was to provide a scoping review of health literacy research in the Pacific region and among Pacific peoples/diasporas globally to 1) summarize current knowledge and 2) identify gaps and opportunities.

The study followed Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review method.

Data were retrieved from 5 electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Ovid, PsychINFO, Web of Science) through March 2025. Two researchers independently evaluated studies against inclusion criteria for "health literacy" and (1) a Pacific location including Oceania and the Philippines and/or (2) a Pacific population including Pacific Islanders and Filipinos in any global location. Data were systematically extracted then synthesized.

Over 1250 records were initially identified; 89 articles were included in the final synthesis; 46 % were quantitative, 40 % qualitative, and 14 % mixed methods. Geographical distribution spanned the Pacific region and beyond (including the USA and affiliated islands of Guam, Marshall Islands, and American Samoa; the Philippines; Vanuatu; New Zealand; Australia; China (Macau); Fiji; Samoa; New Caledonia; Papua New Guinea; South Korea; Canary Islands (Spain), and the United Kingdom). Most studies focused on health literacy of individual patients or laypeople (84 %) compared to professionals (16 %). Many emphasized the importance of communal, collectivist health literacy perspectives.

This scoping review demonstrates the scale and scope of current research on health literacy in the Pacific region and among Pacific diasporas informing research, policy, and practice. A robust literature was also found with multiple methods of scholarship, cross-sector considerations, and community engagement. Notable gaps and fruitful opportunities were also identified.