A Study TO Assess THE Effectiveness OF A Community-Based Health Literacy Program AMONG Adolescents IN Selected Schools AT Baroda: A Mixed-Methods Study
TL;DR
The community-based health literacy program was highly effective in improving adolescent health literacy and integration of such programs into routine school health services is recommended to strengthen adolescent health promotion.
Abstract
Background: Adolescence is a critical developmental period where health literacy plays a vital role in shaping future health behaviors. Limited evidence exists regarding structured community-based health literacy interventions among school-going adolescents in Gujarat, India. Aim: To assess the effectiveness of a community-based health literacy program on knowledge, attitude, and practice among adolescents studying in selected schools at Baroda. Methods: A mixed-methods study with a quasi-experimental pre-test-post-test control group design was employed. Sixty adolescents aged 13-18 years were selected through simple random sampling and allocated equally into experimental (n=15) and control (n=15) groups for the quantitative component. An additional 30 participants from the experimental group participated in semi-structured interviews for the qualitative component. The intervention comprised four weekly sessions covering reproductive and sexual health, menstrual health, mental health, and food and nutrition. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (SPSS version 25.0) and thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's six-step framework. Results: The experimental group showed a significant improvement in knowledge scores (mean difference=1.400, t=8.283, p<0.001) compared to the control group. Post-intervention, 80% of experimental group participants achieved good knowledge levels, compared to 0% at baseline. Qualitative findings revealed four major themes: improved knowledge and awareness, positive behavioral changes, increased confidence in health decision-making, and high satisfaction with the program. Conclusion: The community-based health literacy program was highly effective in improving adolescent health literacy. Integration of such programs into routine school health services is recommended to strengthen adolescent health promotion.