Karina Friis|Mathias Lasgaard|Richard H. Osborne|Helle Terkildsen Maindal
Gaps in understanding health and engagement with healthcare providers across common long-term conditions: a population survey of health literacy in 29 473 Danish citizens
Central Denmark Region|University of Southern Denmark|Central Denmark Region|Deakin University|Health Strat (Kenya)|Aarhus University
h3objectivesh3 1 quantify levels subjective health literacy people longterm health conditions diabetes cardiovascular disease chronic obstructive pulmonary disease musculoskeletal disorders cancer mental disorders compare levels general population 2 examine association health literacy socioeconomic characteristics comorbidity longterm condition group h3designh3 populationbased survey central denmark region n29 473 h3main outcome measuresh3 health literacy measured using two scales health literacy questionnaire hlq 1 ability understand health information 2 ability actively engage healthcare providers h3resultsh3 people longterm conditions reported difficulties general population understanding health information actively engaging healthcare providers wide variation found disease groups people cancer fewer difficulties people mental health disorders difficulties actively engaging healthcare providers longterm condition groups one longterm condition associated difficulty engaging healthcare providers understanding health information people low levels education lower health literacy people high levels education h3conclusionsh3 compared general population people longterm conditions report difficulties understanding health information engaging healthcare providers two dimensions critical provision patientcentred healthcare optimising health outcomes effort made respond health literacy needs among individuals longterm conditions multiple comorbidities low education levels improve health outcomes reduce social inequality health