Health Literacy and the Provision of Information to Women with Breast Cancer

Health literacy levels were high in the population studied. However, the reading level of written patient information was also high, meaning that up to 9% of patients would be unable to read the information provided. Functional health literacy levels were lower, with 19% of patients having inadequate ability. This means that although most patients are able read the information sheets provided, there is a larger proportion that would be unable to understand and act upon this information. Patient education materials should be written at an appropriate level and different modalities of communication should be used to ensure adequate comprehension.