Health Literacy and Associated Factors in Atherosclerosis Preventing among Elderly Hypertensive Patients : A Study in a Subdistrict Health-Promoting Hospital, Ang Thong Province, Thailand

Abstract

Atherosclerosis is strongly linked to hypertension, a leading risk factor that accelerates vascular degeneration. Improving health literacy is crucial for preventing such complications and enhancing patient outcomes. This study aimed to assess the level of health literacy in preventing atherosclerosis and to explore demographic, health-related, and social factors associated with health literacy among patients with hypertension. A descriptive correlational design was used with 100 hypertensive patients receiving care at a Subdistrict Health-Promoting Hospital in Sawaengha District, Ang Thong Province. Data were gathered through a questionnaire with four sections: (1) demographic characteristics, (2) health perception, (3) social support, and (4) health literacy in preventing atherosclerosis (including knowledge, access to information, communication, self-management, and media literacy). Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation analysis were performed. Most participants exhibited high health literacy (63.0%), followed by moderate (34.0%) and low levels (3.0%). The factors found to have a significant correlation with health literacy were: knowledge (r=0.347, p=0.000), 0.347, p=0.000), Receiving health care support from family members (r = 0.411, p=0.000), receiving advice on disease prevention (r=0.200, p=0.046), receiving health-related support from the community or social organizations (r=0.256, p=0.010), (r = 0.256, p = 0.010), Receiving encouragement from those around them regarding health care (r = 0.408, p=0.000), and a family history of hypertension (r = –0.292, p=0.003). –0.292, p = 0.003). The study results underscore the importance of developing a comprehensive health literacy promotion strategy that integrates personal knowledge, family and community support, and care provided by healthcare professionals to prevent complications in elderly patients with sustained hypertension.