Abstract:

Objective: This research was conducted to determine the health literacy level of diabetic patients and affecting factors . Materials and Methods: The research was designed in a descriptive and cross-sectional type. The study was completed with 150 diabetic patients who applied to a state hospital between May 6 and July 30, 2019, who met the research criteria and volunteered to participate in the study. The data of the study were collected by face-to-face interview method using the Socio-demographic Characteristics Questionnaire and Health Literacy Scale. Results: The average point of the Health Literacy Scale of the patients was found to be moderate. When the health literacy levels of the patients were compared according to their socio-demographic characteristics; It was determined that the average health literacy score of male gender, with an education level of high school and above, living with family members, residing in the city, with a good perception of health, individuals who are educated for their disease were found to be high and statistically significant. Conclusion: It was determined that sociodemographic and disease characteristics affect the health literacy level in type 2 DM patients. It is suggested that the level of health literacy should be improved in order to follow up the patients, to prevent negative health problems that may occur and to provide the patients with the self-care skills they need

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