Department

Sociology and Criminal Justice

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-21-2025

Embargo Period

10-27-2025

Abstract

Health literacy is a critical determinant of health outcomes, yet it is often overlooked, particularly among marginalized groups. This paper explores the significance of health literacy, with a particular focus on low-income African American and Black (AA/B) men, a population that faces unique challenges due to intersecting factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, and educational disparities. We examine how these factors contribute to health literacy gaps, highlighting adverse effects on health outcomes for AA/B men compared to the general population. Additionally, we stress the growing importance of digital literacy in an increasingly technology-driven world. Not actively addressing digital health literacy, especially within chronic disease self-management programs (CDSMPs), further exacerbates health disparities within this group. Recommendations are provided for improving health literacy, with specific strategies to also enhance general literacy and digital literacy, among low-income AA/B men. The paper also advocates for a systematic review of the existing literature on health literacy among this group, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions that account for the unique challenges faced by low-income AA/B men. In conclusion, the paper underscores the critical need for targeted research and practical approaches to improve health literacy and ultimately health outcomes for AA/B men in the digital age, particularly through CDSMPs.

Journal Title

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Journal ISSN

1660-4601

Volume

22

Issue

7

First Page

1153

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/ijerph22071153

Comments

This article received funding through Kennesaw State University's Faculty Open Access Publishing Fund, supported by the KSU Library System and KSU Office of Research.

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