Relationship between Health Literacy and Knowledge and Attitude towards Sports Activity in High School Adolescent Girls

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Health literacy is recognized as one of the most important determinants of health for proper health decision making. On the other hand, Knowledge and attitude of people towards sports activities is an effective determinant in their decision to participate in health-oriented activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between health literacy and knowledge and attitude towards sports activities among high school adolescent girls. Materials and Methods: The research method used was descriptive correlation. The statistical population of the study included all female high school students in Islamshahr, Tehran province. A sample of 341 people was selected by multi-stage random sampling. The required data were collected using the Health Literacy Measure for Adolescents questionnaire and the Knowledge and Attitude Scale. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation test and multivariate regression analysis. Results: The results showed that there was a significant positive relationship between knowledge and attitude toward sports activities and health literacy (P < 0.05). All components of health literacy have the power to predict the level of awareness and attitude. Conclusions: According to the results of this study, health literacy can play an important role in encouraging adolescents to participate in sports activities by raising awareness and positive attitude in students.