Definitions of Health Literacy

Abstract

Health literacy concerns the knowledge and competences of persons to meet the complex demands of health in modern society. Although its importance is increasingly recognised, there is no consensus about the definition of health literacy or about its conceptual dimensions, which limits the possibilities for measurement and comparison. The aim of the study is to review definitions and models on health literacy and to show an integrated definition of health literacy. This model can serve as a basis for developing health literacy enhancing interventions.