Health Literacy in Ethiopia: Evidence Synthesis and Implications

Abstract

Background

Health literacy plays a pivotal role in healthcare utilization and health-related lifestyle choices. This makes health literacy a pressing concern, particularly in low-income countries like Ethiopia, where there are intricate health challenges. Despite its significance, there is a dearth of studies on the issue in Ethiopia. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the available evidence on health literacy in Ethiopia, and to discuss the implications for healthcare practice, health promotion, and research endeavors.

Methods

A systematic scoping review was conducted to achieve the purpose of this study. A comprehensive search of databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, AJOL, and PLOS Global Public Health was conducted for eligible evidence. Searches were conducted from May 12 to September 9, 2022. The PRISMA flow diagram guideline was utilized to ensure transparent reporting of the reviews process. The data extraction tool used was based on the JBI methodology guidance for reviews.

Results

The search in total yielded 543 records. However, only 16 studies met the eligibility criteria after a thorough screening process. All eligible studies were conducted in health facilities and schools with limited scopes. The main findings of the eligible studies focused on health literacy levels, health information sources, and health literacy determinants among the studies participants. Many of the studies reported low health literacy levels and multiple predicting factors ranging from personal to socioeconomic conditions among the respondents.

Conclusion

This review has provided critical insights into the state of health literacy in Ethiopia. There is a need for comprehensive research and the development of context-appropriate health literacy measurements tailored to the Ethiopian context, as well as evidence-based health literacy interventions. Prioritizing health literacy as a key research and intervention area is essential for improving the health of individuals and populations and achieving health-related Sustainable Development Goals in Ethiopia.

Plain Language Summary

Health literacy is a vital factor in achieving health-related Sustainable Development Goals, as it influences individuals’ healthcare utilization and health-related lifestyle decisions in their daily lives. Therefore, it is a pressing matter for low-income countries like Ethiopia, where health problems stemming from unhealthy lifestyle choices and poor healthcare utilization are on the rise and adding burden to the existing health problems. This review indicates that health literacy in Ethiopia is problematic, and it underscores the need for comprehensive health literacy research or a deeper understanding of the issue, and effective interventions.

Keywords:

• health literacy
• healthcare practice
• health promotion
• low-income country
• review

Disclosure

The authors declare no conflicts of interest in this work.