Theses and Dissertations from DePaul University

Date of Award

Summer 2026

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

College

College of Science and Health

First Advisor

Lisa Biancalana-Marsh

Abstract

Abstract Background: Health literacy is a critical component of patient-centered oncology care and may influence engagement in health-promoting behaviors. This study examined the relationship between health literacy, sociodemographic characteristics, and health behaviors among outpatient oncology patients. Methods: A quantitative analysis was conducted using the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine–Short Form (REALM-SF) and the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP-II). Associations among variables were analyzed using the Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel test at the 0.05 significance level. Results: Higher health literacy, education, income, and younger age were associated with more positive health behaviors. Higher education and income were also associated with greater health literacy, while younger participants demonstrated higher literacy levels than older participants. Conclusion: Routine health literacy screening in outpatient oncology settings may help identify patients at risk for reduced engagement in health promotion and support targeted, patient- centered interventions.

Available for download on Friday, July 28, 2028

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Nursing Commons

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