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01-08-2018 | Original Paper

A Cardiovascular Health Intervention for Spanish Speakers: The Health Literacy and ESL Curriculum

Authors: Francisco Soto Mas, Cheryl L. Schmitt, Holly E. Jacobson, Orrin B. Myers

Published in: Journal of Community Health | Issue 4/2018

Abstract

Spanish speakers in the United States are in need of effective interventions that address both cardiovascular disease (CVD) and health literacy. However, the literature lacks interventions that have used and evaluated a strategies that focus on both, particularly at the community level. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of a health literacy curriculum on cardiovascular health behavior among Spanish speaking adults. It used a randomized controlled pre-posttest design. Participants included Hispanic adults with a low-to-intermediate level of English proficiency. The intervention group received the health literacy and English as a second language (ESL) Curriculum with CVD specific content, while the control group received a conventional ESL curriculum. Tools included the Spanish Cardiovascular Health Questionnaire (CSC), the test of functional health literacy in adults (TOFHLA), and the Combined English Language Skills Assessment. Analysis of change scores included independent sample t test and multiple linear regression. A total of 155 participants completed the study. There was a significant greater improvement for the intervention group in change of CSC score from pretest to posttest (P = 0.049) compared to controls. The study also found significantly improved TOFHLA (P = 0.011), however it did not find a relationship between changes in CVD behavior and health literacy or English proficiency. The Health Literacy and ESL Curriculum constitutes a valuable resource for addressing the cardiovascular health, literacy, and language needs of Spanish-speaking adults. Interventions that take a multilevel education and health approach may be more effective in addressing the needs of immigrants. Research should further explore the interactions between CVD behavior, health literacy, and English proficiency.

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Title: A Cardiovascular Health Intervention for Spanish Speakers: The Health Literacy and ESL Curriculum
Authors: Francisco Soto Mas
Cheryl L. Schmitt
Holly E. Jacobson
Orrin B. Myers
Publication date: 01-08-2018
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Community Health / Issue 4/2018
Print ISSN: 0094-5145
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3610
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10900-018-0475-3

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

A Cardiovascular Health Intervention for Spanish Speakers: The Health Literacy and ESL Curriculum

Abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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