Black Men and Health Literacy: Strategies for Improvement in a Digital Age Through the Adaptation of a Chronic Disease Self-Management Program

Evelina Weidman Sterling (), Laura Stevens, Vanessa Robinson-Dooley and Tyler Collette
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Evelina Weidman Sterling: Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, Kennesaw State University, Marietta, GA 30060, USA
Laura Stevens: School of Social Work, Simmons University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
Vanessa Robinson-Dooley: School of Social Work, Simmons University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
Tyler Collette: Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Psychological Science, Kennesaw State University, Marietta, GA 30060, USA

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 7, 1-17

Abstract: Health literacy is a critical determinant of health outcomes, yet it is often overlooked, particularly among marginalized groups. This paper explores the significance of health literacy, with a particular focus on low-income African American and Black (AA/B) men, a population that faces unique challenges due to intersecting factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, and educational disparities. We examine how these factors contribute to health literacy gaps, highlighting adverse effects on health outcomes for AA/B men compared to the general population. Additionally, we stress the growing importance of digital literacy in an increasingly technology-driven world. Not actively addressing digital health literacy, especially within chronic disease self-management programs (CDSMPs), further exacerbates health disparities within this group. Recommendations are provided for improving health literacy, with specific strategies to also enhance general literacy and digital literacy, among low-income AA/B men. The paper also advocates for a systematic review of the existing literature on health literacy among this group, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions that account for the unique challenges faced by low-income AA/B men. In conclusion, the paper underscores the critical need for targeted research and practical approaches to improve health literacy and ultimately health outcomes for AA/B men in the digital age, particularly through CDSMPs.

Keywords: Black men; minority health; health literacy; chronic disease self-management; digital health; health communication; health equity; social determinants of health (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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