The relationship between health literacy and health management practices among male Japanese employees of small and medium-sized enterprises in a mountainous region
Mariko Fujita, Hiromi Kawasaki
A
BSTRACT
Context:
Male employees working in male-dominated industries are at a higher risk of developing health problems. Men in male-dominated professions tend to have lower health literacies. Individuals with high health literacy make their own decisions, engage in health-promoting behaviors, and achieve better outcomes. It is necessary to promote employees’ health literacy within companies and enhance their health management capabilities.
Aim:
This study aimed to clarify the relationship between health literacy and health management practices among Japanese male workers employed in small- and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises.
Methods and Materials:
The survey was conducted between October and November 2023 among small and medium-sized enterprises with a large number of male employees in the Chugoku region. The number of valid respondents was 102. This study examined the basic attributes, health-related factors, lifestyle habits, and HL of the participants.
Statistical Analysis Used:
Correlation analysis,
Results:
The mean HL scale was 3.33 (SD=0.68). This study found high rates of smoking and heavy drinking. Significant differences in HL were observed in terms of health examination results, walking speed, and physical activity.
Conclusions:
The HL of male Japanese employees in small- and medium-sized firms located in mountainous areas was lower than that of men in the general workforce and public sector. HL was significantly and positively associated with employees' use of health screening results, walking speed, and high physical activity.