The relationship between health literacy and adherence to physical activity guidelines: a scoping review

Objective: To examine the relationship between health literacy and adherence to physical activity guidelines. Methods: In line with the Joanna Briggs Institute framework, we conducted a scoping review of the literature. Results: Out of 2,098 articles identified, 20 met the inclusion criteria. The studies utilised various health literacy measurement tools, with the European Health Literacy Survey being used the most. Fifteen studies examined the association between total health literacy scores and achieving >150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity weekly. Nine studies reported a positive association, while others found no significant association. In particular, studies using self-reported physical activity more frequently found an association, whereas no association was found when using objective physical activity measures. Conclusions: The findings of this review were inconclusive. The lack of standard health literacy instruments and reporting presents a barrier to the field of knowledge progressing. Moreover, longitudinal relationships between health literacy, mediators and physical activity need to be investigated. Implications for public health: Policymakers should be cautious about using health literacy as the main focus of programs that aim to increase population physical activity