Identifying the gaps in obesity literacy in Thailand: A socio-ecological model approach

10.30207/AHLA.202312.0045

Preeyapat Mangkalard；Hemwipha Hemkaew；Siriwan Pitayarangsarit

health literacy ； obesity ； socio-ecological model

The Proceeding of the 9th AHLA International Health Literacy Conference: Health Literacy and Social Resilience

2023（2023 / 12 / 01）

47 - 47

英文

Background: High obesity prevalence in Thailand is a significant public health issue affecting both adults (42.2%) and children (12.4%, 6 - 14 years old). Inadequate health literacy (HL) levels are associated with obesity-linked health conditions, and HL has been recognized as a key factor in its prevention and management. Despite efforts to promote obesity literacy, studies have shown gaps in HL among Thai population, particularly in media literacy and self-management skills. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the existing gaps in obesity literacy in Thailand and address these issues across three levels of the Socio-Ecological Model (SEM). Method: A literature search was conducted with the inclusion criteria of 'obesity health literacy in Thailand during 2013-2023'. Qualitative content analysis was used to identify the gaps in obesity literacy and address them at the SEM levels. Results: Only 12 articles met the inclusion criteria. Nine papers studied on school students and three papers studied on adults. In general, all studies demonstrated high obesity literacy regarding access skills, but less literacy in other HL. The exploration of obesity literacy utilizing the SEM reveals that the level of HL varies across the three SEM categories. The analysis suggests that large gaps of HL are in societal level, community level, and individual level, respectively. Focusing on societal level, adults have low literacy level in self-management skills and children have low media literacy in addition to self-management skills. Conclusion: Addressing the gaps in HL is crucial for improving public health and reducing the prevalence of obesity in Thailand. By implementing SEM approaches, especially at the societal level, the gaps in HL in the Thai population can be addressed and improved, enabling individuals to make informed decisions and adopt healthy behaviors, ultimately contributing to the prevention and management of obesity.