Key result
Health literacy levels were not significantly associated with differences in cardiac rehabilitation barriers, which primarily included family responsibilities and lack of energy.
Why the study?
Barriers to cardiac rehabilitation participation across individuals with different levels of health literacy needed exploration to inform intervention development.
What are the barriers to cardiac rehabilitation participation across individuals with different levels of health literacy?
Cross-Sectional (n=400)
What are the barriers to cardiac rehabilitation participation across individuals with different levels of health literacy?
Family responsibilities, lack of energy, and preference for managing health alone are major barriers to cardiac rehabilitation, regardless of health literacy level.
Health literacy screening may not identify CR barriers; leaves open targeted interventions for family responsibilities and energy.
This study aimed to explore the barriers to cardiac rehabilitation (CR) participation across individuals with different levels of health literacy. A cross-sectional study was conducted among individuals referred to a CR program. Participants completed online surveys assessing CR barriers using the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale and health literacy using the Brief Health Literacy Screening Tool. Descriptive statistics and comparisons were performed. Among 881 individuals invited, 400 responded, with varying levels of health literacy: 22(6%) limited, 305(76%) marginal, and 72(18%) adequate. The greatest barriers included family responsibilities, lack of energy, and a preference for managing health alone. However, distinct patterns emerged based on health literacy levels, with individuals citing different barriers. Although no significant differences were observed in CR barriers based on health literacy, understanding individual-specific challenges is crucial for intervention development. Addressing common barriers such as family responsibilities and logistical challenges could enhance CR engagement and adherence. [ HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice . 2025;9(2):e72–e77. ]
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Batalha et al. (2025) conducted a cross-sectional in Cardiac rehabilitation referral (n=400). Health literacy levels vs. Different levels of health literacy was evaluated on Cardiac rehabilitation barriers. Health literacy levels were not significantly associated with differences in cardiac rehabilitation barriers, which primarily included family responsibilities and lack of energy.
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