Better Health Communication During the Life Cycle Contributes to Better Health Literacy

Abstract

Health literacy (HL) is about acquiring competences, confidence, and motivation to take action in health improvement. Health communication is key in promoting HL. Information leaflets are a tool that grants autonomy, thereby empowering self-management of health. Qualitative and content analysis of two original leaflets was made by a group of medical doctors, targeting pregnant women and the elderly, who represent different stages of the life cycle. The content was written in an assertive, clear, and positive language, and was adjusted to the target public. A question-answer system was used, making it easier for the reader to gather specific information. Structural aspects underlying both leaflets were similar. Health leaflets are widely used for the proper transmission of information. It is therefore essential that they are appropriate to the recipients' HL throughout the life cycle. The critical and systematised analysis of their information content contributes to quality assurance, leading to better HL and healthcare in general.