Health Literacy of Polish University Students and Its Relation to Sources of Health Education and Socialization

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate Polish university students’ health literacy (HL) in the context of school and out-of-school health education and socialisation. The survey was conducted in two Polish universities between March 2023 and April 2024 using an online questionnaire. The research revealed the correlation between the HL of Polish university students and both school and non-school health education and socialisation, with a higher positive association with non-school health socialisation. Furthermore, the study revealed statistically significant differences between the general HL of Polish university students and the sources of health education. The lack of health education at school seemed to be the most significant differentiating factor. Health-literate students mean health-literate citizens. Achieving this goal should be at the forefront of future policy decisions. Therefore, implementing health education and health promotion throughout the school system (including higher education) should be a priority today.