Health Literacy of the Inhabitants of easter Slovakia regarding Disease of Civilization – survey Results

Abstract

Introduction: Diseases of civilization represent a group of diseases that have common risk factors as a result of long-term exposure to an unhealthy lifestyle, an unhealthy diet, smoking, a lack of physical activity and stress. Aim of the research: To find out whether random respondents who took part in the “Days of Health” event at the Bardejov Spa have basic knowledge about diseases of civilization. Based on the findings, draw recommendations for practice. Research sample group: 398 respondents: 305 women and 93 men. The average age of the respondents was 56.4 years (+-12.8 years). Methodology: On a voluntary and anonymous basis, the patients filled out a questionnaire focused on their knowledge about diseases of civilization. The questionnaire contained both closed and open questions. Results: The authors of the article analyzed respondents’ answers. The results were statistically processed. Conclusion: Our results show that there is a need for repeated interventions by health care workers (doctors, nurses) and public health workers to spread awareness about diseases of civilization and the possibility of their prevention. Increasing the level of health literacy is a good prerequisite for a healthier population.