Traditional Versus Modern Educational Methods; Which One Is More Effective On Health Literacy Of Caregivers Of Patients With Cancer? A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose: Cancer is the main cause of death in developed countries and is the third leading cause of death in Iran. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of traditional versus modern educational methods on the health literacy of caregivers of patients with cancer. Methods: : This study was a randomized controlled trial in which 93 caregivers of patients with cancers referred to Ayatollah Khansari Hospital of Arak (Iran) participated. Simple random allocation to either the intervention group (n=45) which consisted of education using modern virtual social networks (Telegram messenger) or the control group which included using traditional face-to face education methods (n=48) was completed. At baseline and at two weeks post intervention, health literacy questionnaire was completed by participants in both groups. Results: : The mean health literacy in the two groups did not differ significantly at baseline (p> 0.05). At two weeks post intervention the average health literacy in the intervention group was significantly higher than the control group (p <0.05). Conclusion: The social network intervention was more effective in improving the health literacy of caregivers of people with cancer compared to usual face-to-face methods. Thus, the use of these methods is recommended. New educational methods provide a valuable strategy for nurses and other health professionals to improve health literacy, attitudes and knowledge of cancer patient’s families. Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials ( IRCT20161223031522N11)