Health literacy in patients with colorectal liver metastases: A cross-sectional study

PURPOSE: Health literacy influences surgical outcomes by affecting patients' ability to understand information, manage their health and navigate the healthcare system. Yet, little is known about health literacy in patients with colorectal liver metastases. This study assessed health literacy across different domains and explored associations with sociodemographic and clinical factors aiming to identify knowledge gaps within this population. DESIGN: Cross-sectional. METHODS: A total of 122 patients with colorectal liver metastases were recruited between December 2021 and December 2024. Health literacy was assessed using the Health Literacy Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample and to present the overall health literacy profiles. Associations between health literacy and selected sociodemographic and clinical variables were examined using, both univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses. RESULTS: Participants reported the greatest challenges in the Health Literacy Questionnaire domains "ability to find good health information" (mean score 3.98 ± 0.56, range 1-5) and "appraisal of health information" (mean score 2.63 ± 0.55, range 1-4). Lower health literacy scores were significantly associated with male gender, lower educational attainment, living alone, and the presence of comorbidity. CONCLUSION: This study provides novel insights into the health literacy of patients with colorectal liver metastases and highlights the importance of identifying and addressing health literacy challenges in clinical care. Tailored communication and support may enhance treatment outcomes, particularly to vulnerable patient groups. Further research is needed to explore how health literacy impacts decision-making and treatment adherence in complex cancer care.