Abstract
This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the health literacy levels and associated factors
among the people of Satun. The sample comprised 1,928 individuals aged 15 years and older. Data were
collected online from June to September 2024 using the general health literacy scale for Thais (Cronbach’s alpha 0.968). Descriptive and inferential statistics, including independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA,
and chi-square tests, were used for data analysis. The findings revealed that the majority of Satun residents
(49.0%) exhibited a fair level of health literacy, with a mean score of 177.45 (SD = 32.24) out of 235 full
score. Personal factors that were significantly associated with health literacy (p<0.05) were: place of
residence (district), residential area (municipal/non-municipal), gender, age, education level, occupation,
economic adequacy, and health perceptions. In contrast, marital status and the presence of chronic
diseases were not found to be statistically significant factors. The findings indicated that older adults,
individuals with low socioeconomic status, those with a low level of education, and residents living in
non-municipal areas have a tendency to possess lower health literacy compared to other groups (p<0.05).
This disparity highlights the urgent need to establish proactive policies and measures to empower lower
health literate populations to effectively access, understand, and utilize health information for self-care.
