A structural equation model linking health literacy, self-efficacy, and quality of life in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Background Health literacy is a crucial factor that affects health outcomes. Understanding the current status of health literacy among patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the basis for helping patients better manage risk factors and improve their health outcomes. This study aimed to explore the status of and factors influencing health literacy in patients with PCOS, and to validate the pathway between health literacy, quality of life, and self-efficacy for these patients. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenience sample of 300 patients with PCOS in the gynecology outpatient clinic of a tertiary hospital in Zunyi from March to September 2022. Data on health literacy, demographic features, quality of life, and self-efficacy were collected. Multiple stepwise linear regression was conducted to assess the risk factors associated with health literacy for the study participants. A structural equation model was used to construct and validate the pathways. Results Most participants exhibited low health literacy (3.61 ± 0.72), and only 25.70% had adequate health literacy. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the main factors associated with health literacy among participants included Body Mass Index (BMI) (B = −0.95, p < 0.01), education (B = 3.44, p < 0.01), duration of PCOS (B = 4.66, p < 0.01), quality of life (B = 0.25, p < 0.01), and self-efficacy (B = 0.76, p < 0.01). Multiple fit values indicated that the model fit the data effectively. The direct effect of health literacy on self-efficacy and quality of life was 0.06 and 0.32, respectively. The indirect effect of health literacy on quality of life was −0.053, and the total effect of health literacy on quality of life was 0.265. Conclusions Health literacy was low among patients with PCOS. Healthcare providers should pay more attention to health literacy and to developing the corresponding intervention strategies urgently needed to improve the quality of life and health behavior of patients with PCOS.

Impact of Health Literacy, Social Support, and Socioeconomic Position on Serum Uric Acid Level of Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia Patients in China: a structural equation model

“…However, the health literacy level of AHU patients is higher than that of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (87. 20 17.20) and diabetes (88.83 12.57) [34,35]. Considering that most respondents included in this study were urban residents (71.9%), and their education level was generally medium and above, which may explain the higher health literacy.…”

Effect of Lifestyle Modification Strategy based on 5A’s Model on Body Image and Quality of Life among Women with Polycystic Ovary

“…PCOS symptoms are commonly linked to a marked decline in life satisfaction and body image satisfaction, which can have detrimental effects on issues related to sexual and social wellness, psychological health, and physical health (Wulfovich et al, 2022). The evidence suggests that women with PCOS appear to have a lower quality of life (QOL) than women with other chronic illnesses such diabetes, back pain, and arthritis (Guo et al, 2023).…”