Health literacy and preventive behaviors against PM2.5 exposure among residents in a Thai Province: a cross-sectional study

Information from the abstract

Abstract Background Air pollution, particularly fine PM₂.₅, poses significant global health risks due to its ability to penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Thailand frequently experiences elevated PM₂.₅ levels, raising public health concerns. Health literacy may influence individuals’ ability to understand risks and adopt preventive behaviors. This study examined health literacy and preventive behaviors against PM₂.₅ exposure among residents in a Thai province. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 403 residents of Samut Songkhram Province using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics, and stepwise multiple regression analysis identified predictors of preventive behaviors. Results The overall level of health literacy among participants was moderate (M = 3.742, SD = .378). Preventive health behaviors against PM₂.₅ exposure were also at a moderate level (M = 3.700, SD = 0.373). Stepwise regression analysis identified health literacy, average monthly income, and duration of residence in the community as significant predictors of preventive behaviors (p < 0.05), explaining 75.26% of the variance. Conclusions Health literacy and socioeconomic factors were significantly associated with preventive behaviors against PM₂.₅ exposure. Strengthening health literacy and improving access to health information may help promote protective behaviors and reduce health risks related to air pollution.

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Related topics: Air Quality and Health Impacts · Health Literacy and Information Accessibility · Energy and Environment Impacts