Health Literacy and the Pacific Diasopra: A Scoping Literature Review of Journal Articles

Abstract Objectives Health literacy is understudied in the Pacific region and among Pacific communities globally. The study goal was to address this gap with a scoping review to identify knowledge, gaps, and opportunities. Climate change, economic and political forces are displacing increasing numbers of peoples. Ensuring health equity for communities in the Pacific region and across the diaspora is an important global public health concern. Methods Following established scoping review methods, data were retrieved from 5 electronic databases through March 2025 in English. Two researchers independently evaluated studies against inclusion criteria for “health literacy” and (1) a Pacific location including Oceania and the Philippines and/or (2) a Pacific population including Pacific Islanders and Filipinos in any location. Data were systematically extracted then synthesized. Results Over 1250 records were initially identified; 89 articles were included in the final synthesis; 46% were quantitative, 40% qualitative, and 14% mixed methods. Geographical distribution spanned the Pacific region and beyond (including the USA, Guam, American Samoa, the Philippines, Vanuatu, Aotearoa/New Zealand, Australia, China, Fiji, Samoa, Marshall Islands, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, South Korea, Canary Islands (Spain), and the United Kingdom). No studies were in continental Europe. Most studies focused on health literacy of patients/laypeople (84%) compared to professionals (16%). The importance of a community, collectivist perspective was often highlighted. Conclusions A robust literature was found with multiple methods of scholarship; notable gaps and fruitful opportunities were also identified. While significant populations of Pacific Islanders reside in Europe, little research was found on health literacy for these communities in the diaspora. Future reviews should include French, Spanish, and Portuguese languages. This study fills key gaps in global health literacy research. Key messages • A strong and diverse literature exists around health literacy in the Pacific and across the Pacific diaspora that can inform global health literacy efforts. • Ensuring strong health communication and equity for Pacific communities in the Pacific region and across the diaspora is important.