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Croatian Medical Journal, Vol. 65 No. 6, 2024.

Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.3325/cmj.2024.65.493

Behavioral correlates of health literacy among university students of health sciences in Kosovo: a cross-sectional study

Naim Jerliu ; Faculty of Medicine, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo
Haxhi Kamberi ; Faculty of Medicine, University of Gjakova “Fehmi Agani,” Gjakova, Kosovo. Regional Hospital “Isa Grezda,” Gjakova, Kosov *
Iris Mone ; Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania
Pranvera Krasniqi ; National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo, Prishtina, Kosovo
Genc Burazeri ; Department of International Health, CAPHRI (Care and Public Health Research Institute), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands

* Corresponding author.

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Abstract

Aim To assess the behavioral correlates of health literacy
(HL) among university students of health sciences in Kosovo, irrespective of their sociodemographic characteristics.
Methods This cross-sectional study, carried out in Kosovo
in 2024, enrolled 470 students of health sciences from the
universities of Prishtina and Gjakova (86% women; mean
age: 20.7±2.7 years; response rate: 70%). We gathered HL
data with the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire, as well as information on behavioral characteristics
and sociodemographic factors. General linear model and
binary logistic regression were used to assess the independent behavioral correlates of HL.
Results In multivariable-adjusted general linear models
controlling for all sociodemographic factors and behavioral characteristics, lower HL scores were positively associated with alcohol consumption (36 vs 38 in non-drinkers,
P=0.024), low levels of physical exercise (36 vs 39 among
students with high level of physical activity, P<0.001), obesity (35 vs 39 among normal-weight individuals, P=0.011),
and a poorer health status (36 vs 37 among students with a
better self-rated health status, P=0.031). Furthermore, fully
adjusted logistic regression models revealed a positive and
strong relationship of “inadequate and/or problematic HL”
(scores: 0-33) with physical inactivity (OR=7.6, 95%CI=1.8-
31.9) and especially obesity (OR=21.4, 95%CI=3.8-119.8).
Conclusions Students with low HL may be more likely to
engage in behaviors detrimental to health. There is need to
enhance HL among future health professionals

Keywords

Hrčak ID:

336750

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/336750

Publication date:

19.12.2024.

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