October: National Health Literacy Month!
For more than 20 years, the US has recognized October as Health Literacy Month in order to increase personal health literacy as well as organizational health literacy, with the hope of making access to health information easy and accessible for everyone. As October comes to a close, health and health literacy are crucial not only for every individual but also for society as a whole.
What is health literacy?
Health literacy is possessing the ability to find, understand, and utilize health-related information. It includes being able to read, analyze, weigh risks and benefits, make decisions, or take action. Knowing what is normal and what constitutes an emergency is crucial for the individual and society as a whole.
Why is it important?
Taking care of yourself, and taking care of others, will require at least a general understanding of afflictions and treatments available over-the-counter (OTC) or through a prescription from a provider. It is easier to manage a condition or treatment plan after seeing a health professional, but many don’t have access and will instead treat themselves or others with OTC medications or other alternatives.
Who is affected the most by a lack of health literacy?
Typically, personal health literacy is “associated with racial/ethnic minority status, age, poverty, health insurance coverage, educational attainment, language spoken before starting school, and self-reported health.” Increasing health literacy in vulnerable communities has the biggest effect and could also “decrease health disparities,” according to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.
What can I do?
Educating yourself will always be helpful. Learning key words or phrases associated with health and medicine will increase your ability to understand treatments or doctor’s visits. You should also:
- Create a list of questions for your doctor
- Bring a loved one or close friend to appointments
- Clarify a doctor or provider’s instructions
- Remember or record your medical history
- Ask for reading materials
- Request a translator
- Be careful when using the internet to research
ASEA and health literacy
ASEA is a wellness company founded on—and fueled by—human potential. Our products are created by teams of highly trained professionals who prioritize health and wellness, in all instances. We deliver products that have the potential to drastically improve your lifestyle.* We actively encourage our employees, associates, and customers to understand the importance of health and well-being, as well as the importance of sharing your knowledge with others.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This material is intended for a US audience only.