Studying and comparison of health literacy among smokers and non-smokers students in Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in 2016

Abstract

Background and objective: comparing youth with another age show that they are more tendency to the Internet and social networking. Because that, expanding the use of the media in health education and health promotion is essential and undeniable. This study aimed to compare health literacy in youth member of the Telegram With other youth. Methods: In this cross-sectional and descriptive study, 400 subjects aged 18-29 years old were selected using multistage sampling in Tabriz. Relevant information was obtained using HELIA questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS and appropriate tests. Results: 22.2% (n=88) of the participants had inadequate health literacy, 23.2 % (n=93) not so inadequate health literacy, 42.5 % (n=170) adequate health literacy and 12.2 (n = 49) had higher health literacy. There was no significant between health literacy and scales of assessment, decision-making, and understanding in youth member of the Telegram With other youth. But in sub items of accessibility and reading skills, there is a significant difference between two groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: Due to low health literacy and the importance of youth role in society, it is necessary educational programs aimed at improving their health literacy skills, health information management in virtual networks، designed and implemented. Paper Type: Research Article.