The role of health literacy in the association between social support and self-rated health: a Danish population-based study in 10,787 individuals with a long-term condition

Health literacy, particularly the ability to engage with healthcare providers, was a mediator between social support and self-rated health. Additionally, a low level of social support was associated with higher odds of reporting lower health literacy. These findings suggest that strategies to enhance health literacy, improve health outcomes, and reduce health inequities may benefit from strengthening individuals' social network, particularly focusing on those with limited support.