Research Article | Open Access
HEALTH LITERACY AMONG FIRST YEAR BDS DENTAL STUDENTS IN A PRIVATE DENTAL INSTITUTION, CHENNAI - A PILOT STUDY
Jayavarsha.v Dr.D.Sri Sakthi
Pages: 410-418
Abstract
Background: Health literacy term refers to individuals having the capacity to understand basic health
information and make appropriate health decisions. This study explored the health literacy profile of
dentalstudents and allowed them to improve the health literacy of their patients.
Methodology:This was a cross sectional survey study. A self administered questionnaire which contained 10
questions was circulated through an online platform via google docs among first year dental students. The data
was collected and statistical analysis was done by SPSS software. Only completely filled forms were taken in
for analysis. Pearson chi square was used for association. P value of less than 0.05 which is considered
statistically significant.
Results:Total study participants were 98. 48.98% were male and 51.02% were female. Majority of the
population has a high level of health literacy. The health literacy level was lower for boys than for girls. They
reported a moderate ability to engage with health professionals and the healthcare system.
Conclusion: Institutions should target intervention students' ability to improve students' access to health
information and engage actively with health care providers. By this it will improve health literacy levels among
students. In the future it will be easy for them to understand and treat patients.
Keywords
Health literacy, health care providers, self management, dental students, innovative teaching, innovative technique, future curriculum