Mira L. Katz|Amy K. Ferketich|Electra D. Paskett|Clara D. Bloomfield
Health Literacy Among the Amish: Measuring a Complex Concept Among a Unique Population
The Ohio State University|The Ohio State University|The Ohio State University|The Ohio State University
amish cultural practices include formal education 8th grade studys purpose compare health literacy among amish nonamish adults living ohio appalachia understand potential contribution poorer health behaviors eg lower cancer screening rates amish n 143 nonamish n 154 adults completed interviews part lifestyle study rapid estimate adult literacy medicine realm instrument score range 066 used mean realm scores compared test correct pronunciation word compared chi square test significance considered p 0001 multiple comparisons mean realm scores among amish males 533 131 females 562 86 significantly p 0001 lower compared nonamish males 612 98 females 630 62 twelve percent amish participants read lower 6th grade level compared 26 nonamish participants study provides glimpse culture may influence health literacy many amish participants limited marginal health literacy innovative strategies address inadequate health literacy specific cultural characteristics needed improve healthrelated behaviors outcomes among amish