Health literacy education for children: acceptability of a school-based program in oral health

Abstract

A study was conducted to examine the acceptability and effectiveness of a new type of health literacy program for children. The program was organized in the form of a workshop by a dentist. Sixty-three students aged 11-12 years were divided into 14 groups. The discussion topic was the effectiveness of toothbrushing for preventing periodontal disease. To investigate this issue, each group was asked to choose the most appropriate study design for obtaining a reliable answer. After the group discussion, the participants received a lecture on appraising the quality of health information. Pre- and post-program questionnaire surveys were administered to assess the program. Sixteen percent of the students had searched for health information via the Internet; however, 56% claimed to be interested in searching for health information via the Internet. The most approved design was a cohort study (seven groups) as the most valid type of research for showing the effectiveness of toothbrushing. The post-program questionnaire survey revealed that 89% of participants easily understood the content of the program, and 76% found the program to be useful. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of using health literacy programs for schoolchildren. Health literacy programs for children will need to be developed and administered through collaboration between education and health professionals. (J. Oral Sci. 49, 53-59, 2007)