Understanding the impact of health literacy on women's health

J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2009 Sep-Oct;38(5):601-10; quiz 610-2. doi: 10.1111/j.1552-6909.2009.01059.x.

Abstract

Low health literacy negatively affects a woman's health knowledge, preventive behavior, ability to navigate the health care system, and ability to care for her children. Interventions to increase a woman's heath literacy include written education materials with proper reading level and design, clear communication, and education to increase health knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-advocacy skills. Health literacy should also be incorporated in nursing education programs.

MeSH terms

  • Attitude to Health
  • Communication
  • Health Behavior
  • Health Education
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Health Literacy*
  • Health Promotion
  • Health Status*
  • Humans
  • Maternal-Child Nursing / education
  • Maternal-Child Nursing / organization & administration
  • Nursing Assessment
  • Self Care
  • Self Efficacy
  • Teaching Materials
  • United States
  • Women / education*
  • Women / psychology
  • Women's Health*