Identifying Health Literacy Strengths and Needs Among Jordanian Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients.

Abstract

Acute myocardial infarction is a significant health issue, particularly in Jordan where ischemic heart disease is the leading cause of death. Effective management of acute myocardial infarction is essential to mitigate its consequences. Although health literacy is crucial for the successful management of acute myocardial infarction, research about the strengths and needs of health literacy among acute myocardial infarction patients is still limited. This study was conducted to identify the health literacy strengths and needs of Jordanian acute myocardial infarction patients using cluster analysis. A cross-sectional design was used to conduct this study in a sample of acute myocardial infarction patients in Jordan (N = 114). A demographics questionnaire and the Health Literacy Questionnaire were used to collect the data. Data analysis was performed using hierarchical cluster analysis using Ward's method. Seven distinct clusters of acute myocardial infarction patients were identified, each characterized by unique health literacy profiles and sociodemographic characteristics. Cluster 7 had the highest health literacy scores across all nine Health Literacy Questionnaire scales. Sociodemographic factors such as age, education level, and gender influenced health literacy levels, with female, younger, more educated patients exhibiting higher health literacy. Through identifying the specific strengths and needs, this research provides a foundation for developing targeted health literacy interventions for acute myocardial infarction patients. Improving health literacy among acute myocardial infarction patients can enhance their ability to manage their health and potentially reduce the complications associated with acute myocardial infarction.