113Social gradient in health literacy among primary healthcare users in Cyprus

Abstract Background From a notion concentrated on the ability to understand health information, literacy (HL) has become broad concept, considered critical determinant of community health. The HLS-EU-measures perceived HL based theoretical model concept. Methods This study explored metric properties tool in new European setting among convenience sample 300 healthcare users state General Hospital, including construct and known-group validity by social position health-related behaviours. Results While factor analysis did not reveal 12 subscales, there was meaningful 3-factor structure (52.1% variance): “access information”, “prevention promotion” “user-provider interaction”. postulated four cognitive skills (access, understand, appraise, apply) were evident within each domain (healthcare, prevention, promotion), vice versa. Overall, problematic 50.7% participants with steep gradient position. Alcohol consumption physical activity associated HL, but being overweight (mean BMI 26.8, SD: 5.2) or smoking (45.6% current past smokers), which generally prevalent. Conclusions HLS-EU-Q47 supports at least partly HL. criterion highlights an important aspect inequality. Key messages is valid measure There low