The Association of Health Literacy with Self-Efficacy and Self-Care, in Type 2 Diabetes Patients

A low level of health literacy is common among patients with Type 2 diabetes, and may be a barrier to self-efficacy and self-care behaviors. The purpose of the current study was to examine the relationship between health literacy, and self-care and self-efficacy in Patients with Type 2 diabetes. A cross- sectional analytical study was conducted in 2017. Participants were type 2 diabetes patients from the rural health clinics in khorramshahr city, of which 121 were selected via random cluster sampling methods. Data collection tools were a health literacy scale (14-items), self-care scale (12 items) and self-efficacy scale (8 items). Data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 22, and by Pearson’s correlation, T-test, ANOVA, and Stepwise Regression analytical statistics. The mean scores of health literacy, self-care and self-efficacy in patients were 2.90±0.53, 3.39±1.31 and 6.77±1.80, respectively. Pearson correlations indicated a positive relationship between health literacy, and both self-care and self-efficacy (P<0.0001 for both). Designing a curriculum for diabetes patients with low health literacy is required, and improving their information and health literacy, through a curriculum and regular training programs in health education centers is recommended.