Health Literacy in the Prevention of Non-communicable Diseases: A Narrative Review
Manjot Kaur *
Department of Public Health, Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, India.
Ravneet Kaur
Department of Public Health Dentistry, Desh Bhagat Dental College & Hospital, Mandi Gobindgarh, Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, India.
Himani Kapila
Department of Public Health, Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, India.
Rajbinder Kaur
Department of Public Health, Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Non-communicable diseases(NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, etc. considered as a major factor behind 71% deaths worldwide. Although NCDs is a complex process but can be preventable by reducing the associated risk factors.
Aim: To highlight the role of health literacy in the prevention of non-communicable diseases and recommendation for strengthening health literacy with improved access to relevant information and supporting effective self-management of NCDs.
Methods: In the current review the data was extracted from various search engines, namely; PubMed, Google Scholar, Google etc using keywords health literacy, non- communicable diseases, prevention, chronic, risk, barriers etc.
Key Findings: Health literacy plays a crucial role in preventing non- communicable diseases worldwide as educational and communication strategies can substantially improve the management and prevention of disease. Even by implementation of local advocacy and policies for the better health of population can lead to reduced health disparities and a more engaged citizenry in health care decisions.
Conclusion: Health literacy empowers people to get knowledge of informative health decisions and adhere to get effective treatment and the adoption of this approach globally could improve the prevention and control of Non-communicable diseases.
Keywords: Health literacy, non-communicable diseases, prevention, risk factors, opportunities