Health Literacy

Introduction Health literacy is perceived to be a relatively new concept in health promotion. Health education is recognised as an integral aspect of health promotion and in developed countries health literacy, as a key outcome of health education, has a long history (Nutbeam, 2000). Health literacy describes the relationship between a patent's literacy level and their ability to understand and use health information (Nutbeam, 2000). Health education is a fundamental tool in the promotion of health and the prevention of disease. Over the past two decades, health promotion has been the accepted way of addressing public health concerns in Australia and New Zealand and increasing levels of health literacy will enhance health promotion (Wise & Signal, 2000).