How Health Literate Are You?

Put your knowledge to the test with our latest quiz

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October marks Health Literacy Month, but what is health literacy and why does it matter?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) define health literacy as the ability to obtain and understand standard health information and services in order to make informed decisions. When health literacy was last measured by the U.S. Department of Education, only 12% of Americans were considered “proficient” in this skill. Although health literacy is important for everyday well-being and long-term health, it is particularly critical during emerging health events such as the coronavirus pandemic. Poor health literacy can negatively affect a person’s health and contribute to an “infodemic”—the fast, far-reaching spread of misinformation—which can exacerbate a public health crisis.  

Scholars and fellows across Pew’s three biomedical research programs are working to tackle some of the biggest challenges in human health by bolstering scientific knowledge. They’re focusing on issues that affect all Americans—from infectious diseases and cancer to gut health and beyond. Take this quiz to test your health literacy skills and learn more about scientists’ promising research.

America’s Overdose Crisis
America’s Overdose Crisis

America’s Overdose Crisis

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America’s Overdose Crisis

Sign up for our five-email course explaining the overdose crisis in America, the state of treatment access, and ways to improve care

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37 Scientists Pioneering the Future of Biomedical Research

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Biomedical researchers are at the heart of nearly every medical advancement. From cutting-edge cancer treatments to breakthrough discoveries about emerging viruses, these scientists use creativity and ingenuity to explore new horizons in human health and medicine. And for nearly 40 years, The Pew Charitable Trusts has supported more than 1,000 early-career researchers committed to this work.

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Learn the Basics of Broadband from Our Limited Series

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How does broadband internet reach our homes, phones, and tablets? What kind of infrastructure connects us all together? What are the major barriers to broadband access for American communities?