A Review of the Role of eHealth Literacy in the Prevention and Management of Non-Communicable Diseases

Pouran  Moulaei Birgani; Baharak Shirzad Kebria; Parinaz  Banisi; Saeid  Saffariyan Hamedani

Authors

Pouran Moulaei Birgani Department of Educational Management, Ki.C., Islamic Azad University, Kish, Iran. Author https://orcid.org/0009-0002-4889-1597
Baharak Shirzad Kebria Department of Educational Management and Higher Education, CT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. Author https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6472-7848
Parinaz Banisi Department of Educational Management, WT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. Author https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8074-8921
Saeid Saffariyan Hamedani Department of Educational Management, ST.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. Author https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3819-0316

Keywords:

eHealth literacy, digital health, chronic noncommunicable diseases, disease prevention, disease management

Abstract

Chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of mortality and disability worldwide, posing substantial challenges to healthcare systems. Their effective prevention and management increasingly depend on innovative digital health approaches. In this context, eHealth literacy defined as the ability to seek, understand, critically evaluate, and apply health information obtained from digital sources has emerged as a key determinant of disease prevention, self-care, and chronic disease management. This study aimed to examine the role of eHealth literacy in the prevention and management of chronic noncommunicable diseases and to summarize the factors influencing eHealth literacy, its outcomes, and strategies for its promotion. A narrative review was conducted by searching national and international scientific databases for studies published between 2020 and 2026. Articles addressing eHealth literacy, digital health, and the prevention and management of chronic noncommunicable diseases were identified, screened for relevance, and included in the review. The findings were synthesized using a descriptive-analytical approach. The reviewed evidence indicates that higher levels of eHealth literacy are associated with improved health behaviors, greater self-care, more informed decision-making, better treatment adherence, and more effective use of digital health services. eHealth literacy is influenced by multiple individual, educational, technological, and organizational factors. The findings further suggest that improving eHealth literacy requires continuous education, strengthened digital infrastructure, access to reliable health information, efforts to reduce the digital divide, and sustained policy support. Despite the growing body of evidence, important gaps remain, including the limited availability of context-specific models, evidence-based educational interventions, and comprehensive strategies for promoting eHealth literacy among individuals with chronic non-communicable diseases. eHealth literacy represents a fundamental component of digital health and an essential prerequisite for the effective prevention and management of chronic noncommunicable diseases. Strengthening eHealth literacy can enhance individuals' engagement in managing their own health, improve the effectiveness of digital health services, reduce the burden of chronic diseases, and increase the efficiency of healthcare systems. Accordingly, the development of educational policies, empowerment programs, and evidence-based interventions should be prioritized.

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