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Health and well-being outcomes of women and children in Sub-Saharan Africa: Examining the role of formal schooling, literacy, and health knowledge

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  • Pierce, Hayley
  • Foster, Kathryn

Abstract

Health is related to individual educational attainment and literacy status; yet education and literacy do not guarantee health knowledge. Prior research studies health knowledge, formal schooling, and literacy as one entity, neglecting crucial differences. Using Demographic and Health Surveys from 27 sub-Saharan African countries, we examine these three pathways to gaining information, acknowledging each is distinct in target population, content, and delivery method, and uniquely contributes to health outcomes for women and children. Overall, all three pathways increase health outcomes, though health-specific knowledge could address the cultural and financial barriers that often come between women and formal schooling.

Suggested Citation

  • Pierce, Hayley & Foster, Kathryn, 2020. "Health and well-being outcomes of women and children in Sub-Saharan Africa: Examining the role of formal schooling, literacy, and health knowledge," International Journal of Educational Development, Elsevier, vol. 79(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:injoed:v:79:y:2020:i:c:s0738059320304326
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ijedudev.2020.102273
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