This study aimed to explore the longitudinal effects of changes in health literacy on self-care behaviors and health outcomes among patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). A longitudinal study was conducted with 177 ACS patients at a university hospital in Suwon, South Korea. Health literacy and self-care practices were assessed at five intervals: baseline (at the time of percutaneous coronary intervention [PCI]) and at three-month intervals over a 12-month period. This design was intended to capture both immediate and longer-term impacts of literacy changes on patient behaviors. Approximately 30% of patients showed significant fluctuations in literacy scores, particularly in the 60-80 age group, where the most pronounced declines were observed. This indicates that a subset of patients experienced meaningful changes in their ability to comprehend and use health information. The strongest correlation between literacy changes and self-care management was observed at the first follow-up (T1), suggesting an immediate impact of literacy shifts on care management. However, overall correlations between literacy changes and self-care behaviors were weak and varied across time points and dimensions of self-care, highlighting the complex interaction between these factors. These findings align with recent literature emphasizing the nuanced relationship between health literacy and self-care. The study suggests that the influence of health literacy on self-care is both heterogeneous and time-sensitive, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. Tailored educational strategies should focus on the early stages post-PCI to optimize self-care behaviors and enhance quality of life in ACS patients.

Authors:
Sun Hyoung Bae, Ajou University, South Korea
Jin-hee Park, Ajou University, South Korea

About the Presenter(s)
Professor Bae focuses on enhancing symptom management and quality of life for chronic illness patients. Her work utilizes predictors of self-management, integrating machine learning to refine interventions and outcomes.

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