Abstract:
Background: Health determines the quality of life. Health education is the degree to which
people have the capacity to obtain, process and understand health information needed to make
healthy choices. The ability to understand the changes in health conditions, to avoid
complications and to get rid of diseases is known as health literacy. People suffer from various
diseases and health complications as they are deprived of proper health education and health
literacy.
Objectives: To assess individual perception on barriers of health literacy and to find reliable
methods of enhancing health education
Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted using convenient public sample.
The data were collected through a self developed pre-tested questionnaire and analysed
stastitically using SPSS version 25.
Results: The total number of responses was 272. The majority (88%) were, at least qualified
with Advanced Level and 84% of the study sample was below 30 years. About 88% was
confident and satisfied with their level of health information. From the participants, 92%
agreed that health education is important for a happy and healthy life. About 65% believed that
their level of health education is sufficient for self-diagnosis. Majority (70%) stated that they
can avoid risks that would result in any conditions or complications. About 74% indicated that
the level of education, unavailability of reliable sources and socio-economic conditions are the
main barriers to health literacy. The best modes of communicating health information, as per
them, are internet, healthcare awareness programmes and television as responded by 37%,
22% and 22% respectively. About 41% stated that healthcare providers do not educate people
enough on their illnesses.
Conclusions: People need more knowledge on health education. Barriers to health literacy can
be avoided and health education can be developed, if the right methods are implemented.
Health providers should take initiative to enhance healthy lifestyles.
