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Validation of Health Literacy in Dentistry (HeLD-14) in Peruvian Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

T. Evaristo-Chiyong, M. A. Mattos-Vela, Dora N. Gómez-Meza, V. Lamas-Lara, M. Rodríguez-Vargas, A. Agudelo-Suárez

Journal of International Society of Preventive and Community Dentistry, 2025

300 participants · 4 citations

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aim: The Health Literacy in Dentistry (HeLD)-14 instrument was developed as a concise tool for assessing oral health literacy. However, its psychometric properties have not been validated in the Peruvian context. This study aims to adapt and validate the short version of the HeLD-14 instrument for the Peruvian adult population. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 adults aged 18–83 years from three healthcare centers in Lima, Peru. The HeLD-14 was translated, back-translated, and piloted to ensure clarity. Psychometric properties were assessed using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM). Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach α and y Omega de McDonald. The test–retest reliability was evaluated in a subsample of 34 participants with a 15-day interval. Data were analyzed using R v4.4.1 and AMOS 24.0. Results: The HeLD-14 demonstrated strong psychometric properties. The Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin value was 0.804, and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was significant (χ2 = 3152; P < 0.001). Cronbach α for internal consistency was 0.913. The test–retest reliability showed a moderate correlation (ρ = 0.666; P < 0.001). CFA results confirmed the multidimensional structure of the instrument, with all factor loadings exceeding 0.40 and P value < 0.001. SEM indicated strong and significant relationships between oral health literacy and its seven dimensions (standardized loadings:…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 300 participants or records.

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