Association of health literacy and physical activity with physical fitness level among adults

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: ‘Health is wealth’ is the best quote heard but the importance of it is realized only when health is lost. This study aims to assess the knowledge of health information, physical activity level among the adults and correlate this with their physical fitness. Methods: Healthy adults were recruited from the general population through simple random sampling. Physical activity, health literacy, muscle strength, endurance and flexibility were assessed using International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Health Literacy Survey European Questionnaire 16, hand grip test, curl up test, sit and reach test respectively. Data analysis was performed using Primer of Biostatistics (Version 7) statistical software. Results: A total of 51 participants (36 females) with an average age of 34 years and BMI of 24.2 kg/m2 were recruited in the study. Health literacy (HL) score was found to be inadequate in 15% and limited in 37% of the studied population. Majority (62%) had low levels of physical activity. We found a strong association of health literacy, with physical activity and muscle strength, muscle endurance, flexibility and physical fitness index (p = 0.000 for all). Conclusion: The health literacy was good, though the physical activity scores indicated more inactive people. Majority had normal muscle strength and average to above average level of flexibility, but muscle endurance was greatly affected owing to an unacceptable physical fitness index. The study demonstrates significant association between health literacy, physical activity, and physical fitness level among adults. Adequate health literacy is necessary to comprehend and utilize health information.