ASSESSING HEALTH RISK COMMUNICATION LITERACY REGARDING FINE PARTICULATE MATTER AMONG VILLAGE HEALTH VOLUNTEERS IN PHRAE PROVINCE

Abstract

This survey research aimed to assess the levels of health risk communication literacy regarding fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and to compare these literacy levels among village health volunteers (VHVs) in Phrae Province based on personal and work-site factors. The sample consisted of 500 VHVs. The research instrument was a questionnaire, and data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Independent Samples t-test, One-Way ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient.

The results indicated that the overall health risk communication literacy regarding fine particulate matter among VHVs in Phrae Province was at a moderate level (Mean = 67.77 out of 110). When considering individual domains, knowledge regarding fine particulate matter was at a good level (Mean = 7.77 out of 10). However, attitude toward communication, communication skills, risk assessment and transmission, and actual communication behavior were all at a moderate level (Mean = 15.00 out of 25). Comparative analysis revealed that: 1) female VHVs exhibited significantly higher levels of overall literacy and actual communication behavior than males; 2) VHVs who had undergone training fine particulate matter demonstrated higher overall and domain-specific literacy (with the exception of attitude toward risk communication) compared to those without training; and 3) VHVs operating in different districts showed significant differences in overall literacy and risk assessment and transmission skills.

These findings suggest that relevant agencies can utilize the results as an evidence base for policy formulation to enhance health risk communication literacy among VHVs. Emphasis should be placed on continuous, practice-based training programs, context-specific support tailored to local conditions, and the effective utilization of VHVs’ specific competencies. Such strategies are expected to improve the effectiveness of risk communication and contribute to sustainable community health outcomes.