Description
Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of global mortality, with over 80% of premature deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Locally, 38% of deaths are attributed to NCDs. Health literacy is a key determinant of health outcomes due to its influence on health behaviour, yet up to 50% of African populations are considered health illiterate. Research linking health literacy and modifiable risk behaviours in African contexts remains limited.
Objective: This study examined the influence of health literacy on modifiable risk behaviours—poor diet, physical inactivity, alcohol use, and smoking—among the USIU–Africa community, a population representing over 65 nationalities.
Methods: A cross-sectional, quantitative design was applied among 617 students, faculty, and staff. Data were collected using the WHO-adopted Information and Support for Health Actions Questionnaire (ISHA-Q), a Non-Communicable Health Literacy Questionnaire, and a Modifiable Behaviour Retrospective Analysis tool. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, correlations, and regression analyses were used to assess associations. Ethical approval was granted by USIU’s Institutional Review Board and NACOSTI.
Results: Over 95% of participants scored low on health literacy despite 74% self-reporting high perceived literacy. The Barrier Scale score (1.75) indicated minimal difficulties in accessing healthcare, while the Support & Ability Scale score (3.60) showed challenges in interpreting and applying knowledge. Reported behaviours included frequent sugary/processed food intake (69%), moderate physical activity (78%), low vigilance on salt (23%), low smoking (11%), and moderate alcohol use (32%). Knowledge of one NCD predicted awareness of others. Correlation and regression analysis revealed a weak but inverse relationship between higher health literacy and risky behaviours; however, knowledge did not consistently translate into healthier practices.
Conclusion: Health literacy positively influences behaviours but is insufficient alone to drive change. Culturally contextualized interventions, integrated into policy, education, and community programs, are urgently needed to reduce risk factors and curb Africa’s rising NCD burden
| Country | Kenya |
|---|---|
| Organization | Academic Institution |
| Received a Grant? | No |
