HEALTH LITERACY IN HEART DISEASE COMMUNITY THAT COVERED BY HEALTH SERVICES CENTERS IN SOUTH OF WEST AZARBAIJAN PROVINCE

Cardiovascular diseases are the most common cause of death in world, including
Iran. Low levels of health literacy are associated with a high prevalence of chronic diseases, including
cardiovascular disease. Considering the significant burden of heart disease, improving the level of health
literacy can be a determinant factor in preventing and curing these diseases and saving resources.
Therefore, this study was designed with the aim of assessment the health literacy in people with heart
disease.
Material & Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 374 patients with heart disease referred
to hospital of cities located in the south of West Azarbaijan province. The sampling method has been
classified. A health literacy questionnaire in Iranian population was used to collect the data. Data
analysis was performed using SPSS software version 21.
Results: 56/1% of the units were male. All patients were between the ages of 30-65 years old with a
mean age of 50/3 years. The health literacy score for 42% of heart patients was inadequate. The average
total score of health literacy was 58/1 with a standard deviation of 24/3.
Conclusion: Generally, patients with heart disease did not have a desirable health literacy. The health
literacy status of heart patients in Mahabad city was better than Bokan and Miandoab. Therefore,
planning to improve the health literacy in Heart patients as one of the indicators affecting their control
and management of their disease is one of the priorities of the health system of the country.