the basics - World Health Communication Associates

For example, children and young people can learn about health and hygiene,nutrition and physical activity while learning about sexual and reproductive health.Information about birth control can be given at the same time as information aboutthe prevention of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases—so-called ‘dualprotection’. Learning opportunities also exist during immunisation experiences, suchthat families and recipients understand the disease and the public health benefits ofimmunisation.Education and literacy has a positive impact on population health—particularly on women’s health and the health of their children (Sen 1999; Nussbaum2000). It is estimated that two-thirds of the world’s 960 million illiterate adults arewomen. There is a strong positive reciprocal relationship between female educationand women’s empowerment. Education empowers women by giving themknowledge and a new perspective on their role. It also improves their earningpotential. Income for women rises by 10–20% for each additional year of schooling.Educated women are more likely to postpone marriage and childbirth, give betterhealth care to their families, send their children to school and contribute to overalleconomic growth (Kickbusch 2002; Wils 2002).© Photo by Kara JacobsonThe development of literacy skills should be a priority and included in all school andadult education programmes, with particular emphasis on parental involvement inearly years education.44SECTION 4: WHAT CAN WE DO TO STRENGTHEN HEALTH LITERACY?