Health literacy on hygiene and sanitation, nutrition, and diseases among rural secondary school children – Findings from a qualitative study in Odisha, India

CONTEXT: Health literacy among school children is a priority to promote their health, hygiene, and nutrition behaviours and practices. Although in schools they learn from their peers and teachers, their domestic and social conditions also contribute to learning and adopting in practice. The level of health literacy is also influenced based on socio-demographic features. AIMS: It is imperative to explore and understand the practices including existing gaps and challenges for future improvement. METHODS AND MATERIAL: A qualitative study consisting of 17 focus group discussions (FGDs) among students and teachers in six rural secondary schools was carried out in a rural block of the Cuttack district, Odisha. All FGDs were audio-recorded; transcribed and compiled data were imported into Atlas.ti for analysis. RESULTS: An existing gap in health literacy and healthy practices with respect to hygiene and sanitation, nutrition, and diseases was observed. A low socio-economic status, inaccessibility to clean and safe drinking water, toilet facility, and nutritional food items were major factors preventing their health literacy and practice. Many schools have adopted measures such as poster presentation, practical teaching and demonstration, school play, and competitions at the school and in the community, which were found to be effective for creating awareness. Improving infrastructural facilities, ensuring availability of essential commodities, and having more health-promotional activities are required for improving health literacy and practice. CONCLUSIONS: There is an urgent need to improve the health literacy and practice among rural school children. Innovative practical-oriented education at schools and improved awareness among parents and community people would achieve better adherence to healthy practices.