The Relationship Between Health Literacy and Self-Care Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease requiring consistent self-care management to prevent complications and improve quality of life. However, adherence to self-care practices among patients remains suboptimal. Health literacy is considered a key factor influencing patients’ ability to understand health information and apply it effectively in daily diabetes management. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between health literacy and self-care among patients with T2DM. A quantitative analytic study with a cross-sectional design was conducted involving 112 patients in primary healthcare settings. Health literacy was measured using the eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS), while self-care behaviors were assessed using the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA). Data were analyzed using Spearman’s correlation test. The results showed that the majority of respondents had low health literacy (59.8%) and inadequate self-care practices (79.5%). A strong and significant positive correlation was found between health literacy and self-care (ρ = 0.755; p < 0.001). These findings indicate that higher health literacy is associated with better self-care behaviors among patients with T2DM. Strengthening health literacy may serve as an important strategy to enhance diabetes self-management and prevent complications in primary healthcare settings.