Health literacy in Korea: findings from the 2023 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

• 발행기관: 한국역학회
• 저자명: Sunhye Choi Yukyeong Kang Hyejin Kim Kyungwon Oh
• 간행물 정보: 『Epidemiology and Health』47, 1~10쪽, 전체 10쪽
• 주제분류: 의약학 > 면역학
• 파일형태: PDF
• 발행일자: 2025.01.31

국문 초록

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess health literacy and identify vulnerable groups, providing a basis for developing health policies aimed at improving health literacy, using data from the 2023 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). METHODS: The health literacy measurement tool used in the 2023 KNHANES comprised a total of 10 items spanning the domains of disease prevention, health promotion, healthcare, and technology and resources. Health literacy was analyzed in relation to socio-demographic characteristics and major health behaviors among 5,906 adults aged 19 years or older, using the SAS program. RESULTS: As of 2023, the overall prevalence of adequate health literacy among adults was 60.4%. Adequate health literacy was higher in women (62.2%) than in men (58.6%). Younger individuals exhibited higher levels of health literacy, with those aged 19-64 years at 65.9%, compared to only 40.3% among those aged 65 or older. Higher income and education levels were also associated with greater health literacy. Regarding health behavior characteristics, individuals practicing healthy lifestyles, such as non-smoking, engaging in physical activity, and undergoing health checkups, demonstrated higher health literacy than those who did not engage in such behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: Six out of 10 Korean adults demonstrated adequate health literacy, but significant differences were observed according to socio-demographic characteristics (e.g., age and education) and health behaviors (e.g., smoking and physical activity). Tailored education and policy initiatives are necessary to improve health literacy, particularly targeting older adults, low-income groups, individuals with lower education, and those who do not practice healthy lifestyles.

목차

INTRODUCTION

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RESULTS

DISCUSSION

NOTES

REFERENCES

키워드

Health literacy Adult Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey