Publisher: National Institute for Public Health
Author(s): Dr. Ciprian Ursu, Conf. dr. Alexandra Cucu, Dr. Claudia Dima, Dr. Gabriela Cristișor, Dr. Bogdan Păunescu, Soc. PhD. Raisa Zamfirescu
Language: Romanian
Issue Year: 2025
Summary/Abstract:
This study assesses health literacy and awareness regarding cardiovascular diseases and diabetes within the JACARDI Project, a European initiative aimed at reducing the burden of these chronic conditions, focusing on Chirnogi, Călărași County, Romania, where data was collected from 200 individuals diagnosed with diabetes and/or cardiovascular diseases between November 2024 and January 2025 using a structured questionnaire based on the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) and Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) modules. Employing Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) for standardized data collection and the OPHELIA methodology for segmentation, the study identified 10 distinct clusters reflecting varying levels of health literacy, with significant barriers observed among vulnerable groups, particularly those with lower education and socio-economic status, who struggled with accessing specialist care and interpreting medical information. While dietary adjustments were commonly adopted, physical activity levels remained low, and monitoring of blood glucose and blood pressure was inconsistent. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, community-based education, and improved access to reliable medical information to address disparities in health management and promote better health outcomes in rural communities.


