National Adult Literacy Database

This article reviews current literature and research on literacy and health and identifies priorities for research on this topic in Canada. The review found that low literacy has direct and indirect impacts on health. Families are at risk due to difficulty reading medication prescriptions, baby formula instructions and health and safety education materials. People with lower levels of literacy tend to live and work in less healthy environments. They have more difficulties obtaining employment and income security. Action is needed to improve literacy and health through a combination of health communication, education and training, community development, organizational development, and policy development.