Research in Community and Public Health Nursing

Original Articles

[English] The Effects of Health-Promoting Behavior, Health Self-Efficacy, and Health Literacy on Aging Anxiety among Late Middle-Aged Adults: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study: Hye Su Jung, So Young Shin; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(2):200-211. Published online June 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2026.01599

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the levels and correlations of health-promoting behavior, health self-efficacy, health literacy, and aging anxiety, and the factors influencing aging anxiety in late middle-aged adults.
Methods
The subjects included 164 late middle-aged adults aged 50–64 years residing in B metropolitan city, South Korea. An online questionnaire was administered through a professional online research company from June 10th to 16th, 2025 to assess general characteristics, health-promoting behavior, health self-efficacy, health literacy, and aging anxiety. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA with Duncan tests, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple linear regression.
Results
A total of 164 subjects with a mean (±SD) age of 56.70 (±4.08) years were included in the final analyses. Aging anxiety had significant negative correlations with health-promoting behavior (r=-.38, p<.001), health self-efficacy (r=-.31, p<.001), and health literacy (r=-.17, p=.029). In the final multiple regression analysis, having one chronic disease (β=.24, p=.003), subjective health rated as ‘average’ (β=.28, p=.002) and ‘poor’ (β=.29, p=.010), and perceived economic status rated as ‘moderate’ (β=.33, p=.008) and ‘low’ (β=.34, p=.010) were associated with higher aging anxiety, whereas higher health-promoting behavior (β=-.23, p=.003) and health self-efficacy (β=-.21, p=.010) were associated with lower aging anxiety. The model explained 33% of the variance in aging anxiety (F=8.93, p<.001).
Conclusion
Enhancing health-promoting behavior and health self-efficacy and improving chronic disease management, subjective health, and economic stability of late middle-aged adults will ultimately reduce their aging anxiety and positively impact their psychological well-being and healthy aging.

[English] Assessing the association between Health Literacy and Health-Related Lifestyle Behaviors Among the older adults in Pathum Thani, Thailand: A Cross-Sectional Survey: Issara Siramaneerat, Warisara Sukumolchan, Chalit Chaowilai, Rutshaporn Chaitoopthong; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(2):179-189. Published online June 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01494

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
The study explores the relationship between socio-demographic factors, health literacy, and health-related behavior (HLB) among elderly individuals in Pathum Thani, Thailand.
Methods
A total of 440 elderly participants were selected through convenience sampling and completed surveys assessing socio-demographic factors, health literacy, and health perception of illness. The data were analyzed using multiple linear regression to identify predictors of HLB.
Results
In the final model, marital status (married), higher income levels, income sufficiency, and living with family were significant predictors of HLB (p<.05). Health literacy was a significant positive predictor (β=.18, p<.01), while illness perception also showed a significant positive effect (β=.12, p<.001). The model explained 38% of the variance in HLB (R²=.38). Notably, health literacy and illness perception contributed additional explanatory power beyond socio-demographic factors.
Conclusion
Both socio-demographic and cognitive factors play important roles in shaping health-related behaviors among older adults. Interventions should prioritize improving health literacy and promoting appropriate illness perceptions to enhance healthy behaviors in this population.

[English] Influence of Health Literacy and Psychological Well-being on Health Promotion Behavior in Military Personnel: Dong Jun Lee, Eun Sun So; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(1):90-100. Published online March 31, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01389

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
The purpose of this study is to understand the influence of health literacy and psychological well-being on health promotion behavior in military personnel. Methods: This was a descriptive survey study conducted with 142 military personnel serving in front-line and rear-area divisions located in G-do and G-si. Data were collected from May 13 to May 23, 2025, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis. Results: Total military service period of 20 years or more (β=0.39, p=.019), perceived health status (β=0.32, p<.001), psychological well-being (β=0.26, p=.003), gender (β=0.23, p=.014), and university (β=0.21, p=.024) were found to have significant influence on health-promoting behaviors. These variables explained 31% of the variance in health-promoting behaviors (F=5.32, p<.001). Conclusion: It is necessary to develop personalized individual strategies that can promote health-enhancing behaviors among military personnel, while also providing foundational data for establishing military health policies and developing health management programs.

[English] The Effects of Health Care Empowerment Program for Vulnerable Elderly Women with Hypertension: Yunkyoung Jung; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2025;36(3):281-291. Published online September 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01039

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
This study aimed to develop and apply a self-management competency enhancement program based on Johnson’s Model of Health Care Empowerment for vulnerable elderly women with hypertension. Methods: A quasi-experimental, non-equivalent control group design was used. Participants were 38 elderly women aged 65 and older receiving customized home visiting health care in G city. They were assigned to either the intervention or control group. The program consisted of eight 60-minute sessions, and was held twice a week for four weeks. Blood pressure (BP) and lipid levels, including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), were measured at three time points: before, immediately after, and four weeks after the intervention. Health literacy, self-efficacy, and depressive symptoms were assessed using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), independent t-tests, the Friedman test, and the Mann-Whitney test. Results: The program significantly improved health literacy (p<0.01) and self-efficacy (p<0.01). However, no significant differences were observed between groups in blood pressure, lipid levels, or depressive symptoms. Conclusion: The health care empowerment program is a viable community health nursing intervention for enhancing health literacy and self-efficacy in vulnerable elderly women with hypertension.

[English] The Effects of Self Care Capacity of Elderly People in Rural Areas Diagnosed with Chronic Disease on Health-Related Quality of Life: A Two-Mediator Serial Mediation Effect of Social Support and Health Literacy: Sanguk Kim, Minjeong Seo; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2025;36(2):165-178. Published online June 27, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2024.00941

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Abstract PDF

Purpose
The aim of this study was to identify the serial mediation effect of social support and health literacy in the relationship between self care capacity and health-related quality of life.
Methods
Participants were 169 elderly people who lived in rural areas and were diagnosed with chronic diseases. Data collection was conducted from July 10, 2024 to August 30, 2024 through self-reported questionnaires. The data were analyzed by IBM SPSS Statistics 27 and SPSS PROCESS Macro 4.2 program.
Results
The direct effect of self care capacity on health-related quality of life was significant (β = .21, p = .023). The indirect effect of self care capacity on health-related quality of life was β = .14 (95% confidence interval [CI] = =0.01~0.29). The double mediating effect of social support and health literacy in the relationship between self care capacity and health-related quality of life was β = .02 (95% CI=0.01~0.06).
Conclusion
It was found that the social support and health literacy of the elderly diagnosed with chronic diseases living in rural areas were affected by self care capacity, which in turn affected health-related quality of life. It is necessary to approach successful aging by improving health-related quality of life through a system that can improve self care capacity, social support, and health literacy by efficiently utilizing community resources.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Predictors of psychological symptom risk in older adults in Türkiye: the role of mental health literacy and demographic-clinical factors
Nazan Turan, Selcen Babaoğlu Aydaş, Şahinde Canbulat
BMC Geriatrics.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Exploring the Link Between Self-Compassion and Self-Care Agency in Women with Chronic Diseases: Application of Orem’s Nursing Theory in Practice
Behice Belkis Çalişkan, Tuğba Öz, Ülkü Yilmaz
Holistic Nursing Practice.2026;[Epub] CrossRef

[English] The Effect of Digital Health Literacy, Self-Efficacy on Self-Care Behaviors among Community-Dwelling Elderly: Focusing on Gyeongsangbuk-do: Hyojin Son, Youngran Han; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2025;36(1):59-72. Published online March 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2024.00801

10,851 View
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5 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
This study aimed to explore the relationship between digital health literacy, self-efficacy, and self-care behaviors, and to identify the effects of digital health literacy and self-efficacy on self-care behaviors among the community-dwelling elderly.
Methods
This descriptive study used self-reported questionnaires and was conducted from January to April 2024. This study included 197 participants aged 65 or older, residing in nine cities and counties within Gyeongsangbuk-do. Data were analyzed using SPSS/WIN 23.0, employing descriptive statistics, t-test, One-way ANOVA, Scheffé tests, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical regression analysis.
Results
The average scores were as follows: digital health literacy, 21.97±8.38 (out of 40 points); self-efficacy, 3.27±0.72 (out of 5 points); and self-care behaviors, 70.22±10.55 (out of 96 points). Self-efficacy (β=.32, p<.001) was identified as the primary factor influencing self-care behaviors. Additionally, job (β=-.20, p=.002) and gender (β=-.18, p=.007) were also significant factors. These factors explained 22.8% of the variance of self-care behaviors.
Conclusion
Based on the above study results, we found that to promote self-care behaviors of community-dwelling elderly people, developing and implementing training programs that enhance self- efficacy are imperative. Furthermore, efforts should be made to overcome regional disparities by developing and implementing various policies and programs at the government, local government, and community levels to enhance the digital health literacy of the elderly.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

The effect of mothers' digital health literacy on fever management: The mediating role of perceived maternal self-efficacy
Fatoş Uncu, Hasan Evcimen, Elanur Bulut
Journal of Pediatric Nursing.2026; 87: 58. CrossRef
Anxiety and its associations with digital health literacy, self-efficacy and self-care habits among Indian university students
Brency A. Parekh, Ritu Sharma
Health Education.2026; 126(4): 456. CrossRef
Sociological approach to the state-society communication under infodemic: Collective information hygiene in Indonesia
M. A. Muqsith, V. L. Muzykant, F. N. Mahmudah, H. Silvianto, V. K. A. Putri
RUDN Journal of Sociology.2026; 26(2): 580. CrossRef
The Influence of e-Health Literacy, Technostress, and Subjective Health Status on Health Promotion Behaviors among Older Adults
Whang Sun A
Journal of Korea Society for Simulation in Nursing.2025; 13(1): 71. CrossRef
Variables influencing digital health literacy in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Jin Hwa Park, Eun Ju Mun
Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing.2025; 55(4): 651. CrossRef

[English] Digital Health Literacy and Associated Factors Among Older Adults Living Alone in South Korea: A Cross-Sectional Study: Minhwa Hwang, Gahye Kim, Seonghyeon Lee, Yeon-Hwan Park; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2024;35(4):389-400. Published online December 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2024.00766

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420 Download
7 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
This study aimed to examine the level of digital health literacy and identify factors associated with digital health literacy among older adults living alone in South Korea.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 140 older adults aged 65 and above who live alone. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric methods were used to explore the relationship between digital health literacy and independent variables. A generalized linear model was used to identify factors associated with digital health literacy.
Results
Among 140 smartphone-owning older adults living alone, 52.1% were using the Internet via digital devices, and the participants’ average digital health literacy score was 6.64±7.46. Univariate analysis results showed significant differences in digital health literacy according to age, education level, and multimorbidity. The factors associated with digital health literacy were identified as gender (B=−0.36, p=.031), age (B=−0.06, p<.001), education level (B=0.12, p<.001), and sleep problems (B=−0.06, p=.006).
Conclusion
Despite widespread Internet and smartphone use, older adults living alone with chronic diseases showed low levels of digital health literacy, which were significantly associated with gender, age, education level, and sleep problems. Enhancing digital health literacy among vulnerable populations is crucial for the effective implementation of digital health services. Collaborative efforts, including tailored digital health interventions to enhance the digital health literacy of vulnerable populations and supportive policies, are essential to bridge the digital divide and promote health equity.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Explainable Machine Learning for Assessing Digital Health Literacy in Older Adults: Validation and Development of a Two-Stage Model Integrating Performance-Based and Self-Assessed Indicators
Choonghee Park, Jiyeon Park, Seora Kim, Ye Seul Bae, Jae-Heon Kang, Tae-Min Kim, Ji-Won Chun
JMIR Medical Informatics.2026; 14: e86171. CrossRef
Digital health literacy scale in older adults: A study on the validity and reliability of the Turkish version
Gülcan Bahcecioglu Turan, Mizgin Demir, Zülfünaz Özer
Geriatric Nursing.2026; 71: 104101. CrossRef
Effects of a digital repetitive dietary education intervention on dietary knowledge, dietary self-care behaviors, and physiological indicators among hemodialysis patients in rural Korea: a quasi-experimental study
Eun-Ho Ha, Sun-Ju Park
Journal of Korean Biological Nursing Science.2026; 28(2): 275. CrossRef
Sex Differences in Health Literacy and Health-Promoting Behaviors Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults With Hypertension: Implications for Home Health Nursing Practice
Wanich Suksatan, Supat Teravecharoenchai, Jintana Sarayuthpitak
Home Health Care Management & Practice.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Associations of General Self-Efficacy and Digital Health Literacy with Self-Management and Intention to Use Digital Health Services Among Adults Aged 50 Years and Older with Chronic Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study
Pınar Soylar, Gülsüm Aşan, Bircan Ulaş Kadıoğlu
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2026; 23(7): 943. CrossRef
Determinants of self-reported health literacy among older adults in South Korea: a cross-sectional study
Jieun Shin, Seunghui Baek
Frontiers in Public Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Analysis of factors influencing digital literacy of rural elderly people-evidence from China
Zhaoting Zhang
BMC Public Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

[English] Reliability and Validity of the Korean Version of 8-item Health Literacy Assessment Tool (K-HLAT-8): Mirae Jo, Eun-mi Kwak; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2024;35(4):351-362. Published online December 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2024.00682

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Korean version of the Health Literacy Assessment Tool (K-HLAT-8) for Korean adults.
Methods
The survey was conducted from April 1, 2020 to May 30, 2020 at a university hospital, a university, and one community picnic area with adults who understood the purpose of the study and voluntarily agreed to participate. A total of 220 adults participated in this study. After forward and backward translation of the original version of the Health Literacy Assessment Tool 8 (HLAT-8) into Korean, construct validity (confirmatory factor analysis), convergent validity, and reliability were evaluated. Convergent validity was confirmed through the correlation between the K-HLAT-8 and the Self-As Carer Inventory (SCI).
Results
Construct validity, evaluated using confirmatory factor analysis, showed good fit. The K-HLAT-8 showed a positive correlation with the SCI score. In terms of internal consistency, Cronbach’s α of the K-HLAT-8 was 0.85. For test-retest reliability, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was .99 (95% CI: 0.97~0.99).
Conclusion
The reliability and validity were confirmed, so K-HLAT-8 can be applied to evaluate the health literacy of Korean adults. Furthermore, these assessment results should be used as basic data to implement programs that can improve health literacy.

Review Article

[English] A Systematic Review of Questionnaire Measuring eHealth Literacy: Jung-Won Ahn, Mi Young Kim; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2024;35(3):297-312. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2024.00752

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6 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
This review aims to summarize the characteristics of currently used questionnaires measuring eHealth literacy and assess the quality of their psychometric properties in self-reported assessments within community settings.
Methods
The systematic analysis was conducted using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments checklist to evaluate the methodological quality of studies on measurement properties.
Results
A total of 21 studies, including 19 questionnaires, were reviewed. The findings indicated that the quality of psychometric assessments for eHealth literacy was generally rated as 'good,' with most studies addressing multiple aspects of reliability and validity. Internal reliability, content validity, hypothesis testing, and responsiveness were particularly well-supported, each receiving over 10 sufficient ratings. However, there was limited evidence regarding measurement errors, test-retest reliability, criterion validity, and analyses of floor and ceiling effects.
Conclusion
This study contributes to the enhancement of eHealth literacy measurement tool selection and improves the reporting of their validity and reliability, thereby increasing the credibility of future research.

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Translation and Psychometric Validation of the Amharic eHealth Literacy Questionnaire: Cross-Sectional Study
Gesine Meng, Nuhamin Tekle Gebre, Abel Shita, Eyerusalem Getachew, Alemnew Destaw, Nicola Cera Schroeder, Marcus Heise, Kay Brauer, Patrick Jahn, Eva Johanna Kantelhardt, Adamu Addissie, Muluken Gizaw, Sefonias Getachew, Eric Sven Kroeber
Journal of Medical Internet Research.2026; 28: e87814. CrossRef
How many instruments do we need? Strengths, weaknesses and potentials for further developments of digital health literacy measurement instruments – a narrative overview of reviews and content analysis (Preprint)
Pauline Kaboth, Lorenz Harst, Jochen Schmitt, Madlen Scheibe
Interactive Journal of Medical Research.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Digital access, digital health information engagement, and self-reported preventive behavior among rural adults in Guizhou, China: media-use ecologies and cross-sectional associations
Yuxiao Lyu, Chaozhong Luo
Frontiers in Public Health.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Current status of systematic review studies on patient-reported outcome measures published in Korean journals
Duck-Hee Chae, Jiyeon Lee, Eun-Hyun Lee
Research in Community and Public Health Nursing.2025; 36: 1. CrossRef
Neonatal nurses’ e-health literacy and technology‑mediated clinical practice: a cross-sectional analysis of digital health competencies and practice patterns
Osama Mohamed Elsayed Ramadan, Nadia Bassuoni Elsharkawy, Alaa Hussain Hafiz, Nouran Essam Katooa, Areej Abunar, Dena Marwan A. Attallah, Mashael Dewan, Majed Mowanes Alruwaili, Abeer Nuwayfi Alruwaili, Afrah Madyan Alshammari, Nourah Alsadaan, Enas Mahro
BMC Nursing.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Understanding Patient Rights: A Pilot Study Assessing Health Literacy in Written Pre-Appointment Letters
Julie Dalgaard Guldager, Lotte Christina Waldhauer, Carsten Kronborg Bak
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2025; 22(10): 1518. CrossRef

Original Articles

[English] The Relationships between Rural Elderly’s Suicide Literacy, Suicide Stigma and Coping Advice for Suicide Prevention: The Moderated Mediation Effect of Social Expectations for Experiencing Negative Emotions: Soon Tae An, Han Nah Lee, Jeong Hee Cho; J Korean Acad Community Health Nurs. 2022;33(2):164-174. Published online June 30, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/jkachn.2022.33.2.164

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1 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of the rural elderly suicide literacy level upon suicide stigma and coping advice with suicidal crises (recommending professional help for a suicidal person). In particular, this study investigates the role of cultural norms (perceived social expectations for the experience of negative emotions) on suicide stigma and coping ability. Methods A survey was conducted addressing elderly people (N=119) living in rural areas. Regression analysis using SPSS PROCESS macro was used to examine the relationships among the key variables. Results Participants with higher suicide literacy showed lower suicide stigma, and this perception had a significant effect on enhancing their coping advice with suicidal crises. Also, perceived social expectations significantly influenced the relationship between suicide stigma and coping advice. With lower levels of social expectations, the mediating effect of suicide stigma on the relationship between suicide literacy and recommending professional help did not exist whereas the indirect effect was significant when it pertained to high levels of social expectations. Conclusion This result signifies that suicide stigma serves as a barrier deterring Koreans from reaching out for professional help regarding their mental health. Moreover, these findings underscore the importance of cultural psychological factors such as perceived social expectations in terms of developing suicide prevention strategies.

Citations

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Potential of Digital Gatekeepers in Online Social Relationships: Exploring the Mediating Effect of Concern Level
Hannah Lee, Soontae An
Journal of Digital Contents Society.2025; 26(10): 2815. CrossRef

[English] Factors Influencing the Self-management Behaviors of the Elderly with Hypertension in the Local Community: Jeong Ju Hong; J Korean Acad Community Health Nurs. 2021;32(3):303-311. Published online September 30, 2021; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/jkachn.2021.32.3.303

2,843 View
105 Download
3 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
This study investigated the health literacy level of, the hypertension knowledge of, the self-management behaviors of, and the factors influencing self-management behaviors of the hypertensive elderly population residing in the urban and rural areas.
Methods
Data were collected from November to December 2017 by the trained research staff. For two months, a total of 160 subjects in urban and rural areas who had been taking antihypertensive medications consented to participate in the project. 157 participants completed the survey. Results: The health literacy score of the hypertensive elderly subjects was at 48.38±8.13, the hypertension knowledge score at 8.90±2.01 points, and the self-management behaviors score at 52.96±8.08. The factor that influenced the self-management behaviors of the hypertensive elderly subjects the most was the health literacy, followed by the residential area, and the hypertension knowledge.
Conclusion
The research findings suggest that a health promotion program for the hypertensive elderly population should be designed in consideration of the health literacy, the area of residence and the hypertension knowledge of the elderly.

Citations

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Development of Virtual Reality-Based Home-Visiting Healthcare Education Content
Young-Sun Ha, Yong-Kyung Park, Hye-Sun Byun, Moon-Ji Choi
Journal of Digital Contents Society.2025; 26(1): 1. CrossRef
Toward the development of a digital self-nutrition management education program for elderly: findings from focus groups study
Hae-song Yoo, Jin-myong Lee, Min-sun Jeon
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2025; 30(6): 431. CrossRef
A Cross-Sectional Study of Physical Fitness and Risk of Hypertension in Korean Adults Aged 20–59
Bogja Jeoung, Jiyoun Kim
Healthcare.2023; 11(14): 2057. CrossRef

[English] Reliability and Validity of the Korean version of Short-Form Health Literacy Scale for Adults: Young Joo Seo, Eun Mi Kwak, Mi Rae Jo, A-Ra Ko, Soon Hwan Kim, Hee Young Oh; J Korean Acad Community Health Nurs. 2020;31(4):416-426. Published online December 31, 2020; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/jkachn.2020.31.4.416

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14 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Korean version of Short-form Health Literacy Scale (HLS-SF-K12) for Adults.
Methods
The English HLS-SF12 was translated into Korean with forward and backward translation. Survey data were collected from 204 adults who visited two hospitals in Korea. Content validity, construct validity, and known-groups validity were evaluated. Cronbach's ⍺ for internal consistency and test-retest were used to assess reliability. SPSS 21.0 and AMOS 21.0 software were used for data analysis.
Results
The HLS-SF-K12 was composed of 12 items, and three subscales (health care, disease prevention, and health promotion). The instrument explained reliable internal consistency with Cronbach’s ⍺ for the total scale of .89, and .74~.81 for subscales. The model of three subscales for the HLS-SF-K12 was validated by confirmatory factor analysis (Normed x 2 =2.14 (p<.001), GFI=.92, RMR=.04, RMSEA=.08, CFI=.94, TLI=.92, IFI=.94). The hypothesis testing which analyzed the differences in health literacy by age and education level was satisfied.
Conclusion
The HLS-SF-K12 is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring health information comprehension for adults in Korea.

Citations

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Reliability and Validity of the Korean Version of the Digital Health Literacy Instrument
Jeahyung Lee, Chulwoo Ahn, Jisun Park, Sooyoung Kim, Yerim Kim, Jiwon Park, Jaeyong Shin
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
What drives patients’ preferences for cancer care in South Korea’s capital area? A study on preferences concerning cancer care facilities
Noorhee Son, Woorim Kim, Woo-Ri Lee, Kyu-Tae Han
BMC Health Services Research.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
The Effects of Health-Promoting Behavior, Health Self-Efficacy, and Health Literacy on Aging Anxiety among Late Middle-Aged Adults: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study
Hye Su Jung, So Young Shin
Research in Community and Public Health Nursing.2026; 37: 200. CrossRef
Factors Influencing Care Satisfaction among Family Members of Patients in the Intensive Care Unit
Miwha Park, Younkyoung Kim
Journal of Korean Critical Care Nursing.2026; 19(2): 83. CrossRef
The association between health literacy and unmet medical needs by gender
Jisu Ko, Jae Hyeok Lim, Dan Bi Kim, Min Jeong Joo, Yun Seo Jang, Eun-Cheol Park, Suk-Yong Jang
Public Health.2025; 241: 39. CrossRef
Development and validation of a menopause-specific health literacy scale for middle-aged women
Haein Lee, Junghee Kim, Hanna Lee
Patient Education and Counseling.2025; 136: 108762. CrossRef
The Development and Effectiveness of an Ecological Model-based Prevention Program for Cardiocerebrovascular Disease in Middle-Aged Industrial Workers
Yumi Lim, Moon Sook Shim
Journal of Korean Public Health Nursing.2025; 39(1): 33. CrossRef
Providing 2 Types of mHealth Interventions to Support Self-Management Among People Living With HIV: Randomized Clinical Trial
Gwang Suk Kim, Layoung Kim, Seoyoung Baek, Sooyoung Kwon, Ji Min Kim, Jun Yong Choi, Jae-Phil Choi
JMIR mHealth and uHealth.2025; 13: e60905. CrossRef
Mediating Role of Patient Safety Perception on the Relationship Between Health Literacy and Patient Experience Among Inpatients
On-Jeon Baek, Sun-Hwa Shin
Sage Open.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
The effects of health literacy on medication compliance in the independent living: Mediating effect of e-health literacy: A cross-sectional descriptive study
Woo Joo Nam, Ju Young Ha
Journal of Korean Gerontological Nursing.2024; 26(2): 180. CrossRef
Factors influencing self-management behaviors in older people with multiple chronic conditions based on the individual and family self-management theory: A cross-sectional study
Youngji Seo, Sunyoung Jung
Journal of Korean Gerontological Nursing.2024; 26(3): 332. CrossRef
Development and validation of the Health Literacy Index for the Community for the Korean National Health and Nutrition and Examination Survey
Junghee Yoon, Soo Jin Kang, Mangyeong Lee, Juhee Cho
Epidemiology and Health.2024; 46: e2024061. CrossRef
Cultural and linguistic adaption and testing of the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) among healthy people in Korea
Jin-Hee Park, Richard H. Osborne, Hee-Jun Kim, Sun Hyoung Bae, Sonu Goel
PLOS ONE.2022; 17(8): e0271549. CrossRef
Health literacy measures in South Korea: A scoping review
Heeran Chun, Su Hyun Kim, Eunja Park
Korean Journal of Health Education and Promotion.2022; 39(4): 39. CrossRef

[English] Trends and Level in Health Literacy Research on Immigrants in Korea: A Literature Review: Soo Jin Kang, Na Kyum Hyung; J Korean Acad Community Health Nurs. 2020;31(3):322-336. Published online September 30, 2020; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/jkachn.2020.31.3.322

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5 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the current state and trends of health literacy research considering migrants living in South Korea.
Methods
A review of the literature was conducted using electronic data base and citation tracking. A total of 82 articles were identified, of which 16 articles that met the inclusion criteria were selected for review. Two authors reviewed the articles independently using a matrix table and then examined four aspects of the studies jointly: research method, immigrant characteristics, health literacy assessment, and main findings.
Results
Most of the articles (n=13) were descriptive studies and three were methodology studies for instrument development. Of the 13 studies, eight involved female immigrants, four of health literacy involved migrant workers, and four concerned North Korean Refugees. A total of eight types of health literacy assessment tools were used. Sufficient samples and sampling methods were lacking at the population level.
Conclusion
The results of the review generally showed that the health literacy of immigrants was lower than that of native South Koreans, and that there was a difference between nationality and gender among immigrants; however, further research is needed to review a larger sample with a validated instrument.

Citations

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Health literacy in Korea: findings from the 2023 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Sunhye Choi, Yukyeong Kang, Hyejin Kim, Kyungwon Oh
Epidemiology and Health.2025; 47: e2025037. CrossRef
Development of a mobile health information application for immigrant women in South Korea
Sou Hyun Jang, Yong Jeong Yi, Yun-Mi Song
Online Information Review.2024; 48(5): 889. CrossRef
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[English] The Effects of the Level of Health Literacy and Self-care Activities on Quality of Life of Patients with Diabetes in Korea: Soo Jin Kang, Chanho Park; J Korean Acad Community Health Nurs. 2020;31(2):189-198. Published online June 30, 2020; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/jkachn.2020.31.2.189

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Abstract PDF

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to identify levels of health literacy and examine the effects of health literacy and self-care activities on quality of life of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Methods
A cross sectional design was used. Questionnaires were administered via the Gallup to 500 Korean patients with diabetes in Seoul and Gyeonggi areas. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t tests, one way ANOVA, and hierarchical regression.
Results
Of 500 patients, 12.4% (n=62) indicated ‘inadequate’ health literacy, and 43.8% (n=219) reported ‘marginal’ or ‘adequate’ health literacy. Levels of health literacy significantly differed by demographic characteristics, self-care activities, and quality of life. The factors that had a significant effect on quality of life included inadequate health literacy (B=3.63, p=.042) and marginal health literacy (B=3.84, p=.002); however, no significant relationship was found for self-care activities (B=0.01, p=.827).
Conclusion
The results of this study demonstrate a need for further research with large samples using Korean Health Literacy Scale for Diabetes Mellitus to establish the relationships between health literacy, diabetes self-care activities, and quality of life.

Citations

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Factors Associated with Quality of Life among Community-dwelling Older Adults with Diabetes: Focusing on Health Literacy, Self-efficacy, and Social Support
Min-Che Kim, Soo-Jin Kang
Journal of Korean Public Health Nursing.2026; 40(1): 23. CrossRef
Effects of e-health literacy on health-related quality of life in young adults with type 2 diabetes: Parallel mediation of diabetes self-efficacy and self-care behaviors
Yura Jang, Youngran Yang
Applied Nursing Research.2025; 82: 151917. CrossRef
The Mediating Role of Acceptance Action and Self-Care in Diabetes Self-Stigma’s Impact on Type 2 Diabetes Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Study
Kawoun Seo
Behavioral Sciences.2023; 13(12): 993. CrossRef
Selected health behaviors associated with health literacy and digital health literacy
Eun Jin Choi, Heeran Chun, Woosung Kwak
Korean Journal of Health Education and Promotion.2022; 39(5): 81. CrossRef
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Hoo Jeung CHO, Euna PARK
THE JOURNAL OF FISHERIES AND MARINE SCIENCES EDUCATION.2022; 34(2): 219. CrossRef
The Relationships Among Health Literacy, Illness Perception, and Diabetes Self-Care in Korean-Speaking Immigrants With Diabetes
Suwon Park, Yaewon Seo
Clinical Nursing Research.2022; 31(7): 1234. CrossRef

[English] Concept Analysis of Health Literacy for Patients with Cardiovascular Disease using Hybrid Model: Jeong Eun Sim, Seon Young Hwang; J Korean Acad Community Health Nurs. 2019;30(4):494-507. Published online December 31, 2019; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/jkachn.2019.30.4.494

4,759 View
38 Download
4 Citations

Abstract PDF

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study is to provide a clear definition of the health literacy for patients with cardiovascular disease by analyzing the dimensions and properties using Hybrid concept analysis.
METHODS
The concept of health literacy of patients with cardiovascular disease was analyzed according to the cyclic process of theoretical phase-field work phase-final analysis phase presented in the Hybrid model. We reviewed 26 literatures and conducted in-depth interviews with 13 patients with cardiovascular disease.
RESULTS
The concept of health literacy in cardiovascular patients is derived from two dimensions and five attributes. Literacy skills, health information search ability and health information utilization skills were derived as attributes in the individual functional dimension, while active communication with the medical team and utilization of health information support resources were derived at the interrelational dimension. It is defined as the individualized and integrated ability of an individual to explore and utilize the various health information needed to make appropriate health decisions during the chronic course after diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, to communicate proactively with medical staffs and to utilize support resources.
CONCLUSION
This study will contribute to the development and related research of health literacy measurement tools that can be used in cardiovascular nursing practice based on the attributes and indicators of health literacy for patients with cardiovascular disease.

Citations

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The Effect of a Post-discharge Tailored Telephone Follow-up Program for Patients after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention with Low Health Literacy: A Pilot Study
Myoungjoo Kang, Nah-Mee Shin, Jaehyoung Park
Korean Journal of Adult Nursing.2026; 38(1): 61. CrossRef
Development and Validation of a Health Literacy Scale for Patients With Cardiovascular Disease (HLS‐CVD)
Jeongeun Sim, Seon Young Hwang
International Journal of Nursing Practice.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
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Hypertension literacy: Concept analysis
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Nursing Open.2023; 10(9): 6078. CrossRef

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