Enhancing Health Literacy and Promoting Adolescents Healthy Behaviors: Empirical Analysis
Keywords:
Health Literacy, Adolescence, Health Promotion, Validity, Nutrition.Abstract
This study investigates health literacy (HL) current levels and health promotion behaviors (HPB) among adolescents in Peshawar, Pakistan. Recognizing adolescence as critical period for fostering health-promoting behaviors, the research examines relationship between HL and HPB and explores socio-demographic factors influencing these variables. Utilizing cross-sectional survey of 298 tenth-grade students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, the study employs validated scales to measure HL and, HPB. Findings reveal that HL and HPB among participants, with significant correlations between HL and various dimensions of HPB, particularly stress management and spiritual growth. Socio-demographic factors such as parental education and internet use significantly influence HL and HPB. Gender disparities were observed, with male students exhibiting slightly higher HL and HPBs. The study underscores importance of integrating comprehensive health education into school curricula, enhancing parental involvement, and leveraging digital platforms for effective health promotion. These insights call for targeted interventions to improve health literacy and promote equitable health behaviors, ultimately aiming to diminish future health disparities.
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