Table 1 Health literacy dimensions and related indicators

Health knowledge

Is a high-salt diet associated with hypertension? (Yes/No)

Is obesity associated with hypertension? (Yes/No)

Which one do you consider a more balanced diet? (1) Diet with variety and balanced mix of nutrients, (2) Diet with the same amount for every kind of nutrient, (3) Diet with high nutrition, (9) Unknown

Is mental stress related to hypertension? (Yes/No)

Health-information presentation skill

Have you ever joined a health workshop organised by a community facility? (Yes/No)

What is the range of an adult’s body mass index? (1) 18.5-23.9, (2) 24-27.9, (9) Unknown

Do you know the diagnostic criteria for hypertension? (1) below 90/60 mmHg, (2) above 140/90 mmHg, (3) above 160/96 mmHg, (9) Unknown

Patients with Type 2 diabetes can be healed by one course of treatment, so they do not need to take long-term medications. (True/False)

Health belief

Smoking causes cardiovascular disease. (True/False)

Patients with Type 2 diabetes mainly rely on medications. (True/False)

Do you pay attention to your intake of cooking oil (fat)? (Yes/No)

Healthy people do not need to receive regular physical examinations. (Yes/No)

Health behaviour

Do you take the initiatives to access health knowledge? (Yes/No)

Do you have any physical activities in leisure time (for example, walking, dancing, gardening, hiking, swimming) at a moderate or vigorous intensity for at least 10 minutes at a time? (Yes/No)

What actions do you usually take when you are ill or are feeling uncomfortable? (1) Self-medication, (2) Visit a doctor for consultation, (3) Self-treatment and look for medical advice from a doctor