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Health Literacy Month

Boost your health IQ this October with Health Literacy Month - join the movement to improve understanding and communication in healthcare!

Thursday

1–31

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of October

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

October is not just a month for spooky decorations and pumpkin spice lattes – it's also the perfect time to focus on our health literacy! Every year, October is recognized as Health Literacy Month, with the goal of promoting understanding and access to important health information. This celebration has been around since 1999 when it was first created by Helen Osborne, a health writer and advocate. From learning about proper nutrition to understanding medical terminology, this month is all about empowering individuals to take control of their own health and well-being. Get ready to educate yourself and others about the importance of health literacy this October!

TIMELINE

Health Literacy Month Timeline

Origin of Health Literacy Month

Health writer and advocate, Helen Osborne, first declared October as Health Literacy Month.

Institute of Medicine Report

The Institute of Medicine published a report called "Health Literacy: A Prescription to End Confusion", emphasizing the importance of health literacy.

Affordable Care Act Provision

The Affordable Care Act contained provisions to improve health literacy among Americans, showing a recognition at the national level.

Health Literacy Tool Shed Launch

The "Health Literacy Tool Shed", an online database of health literacy measure, was launched to help provide resources and tools.

Pandemic Highlights Health Literacy

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of health literacy with clear communication of health information becoming crucial.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Health Literacy Month

Start a health book club

Gather a group of friends or colleagues and start a health book club! Each month, choose a book focused on health and wellness to read and discuss together.

ATTEND

Attend a health seminar or workshop

Check your local community center or hospital for health seminars or workshops that are being offered during Health Literacy Month. Attend one to learn more about a specific health topic.

CREATE

Create a healthy cooking challenge

Challenge yourself to create healthy and nutritious meals throughout the month. Share your creations on social media and encourage others to join in on the challenge.

HOST

Host a health fair

Organize a health fair in your community to raise awareness about important health topics and provide resources for individuals to learn more about their health.

START

Start a health journal

Document your journey to better health by starting a health journal. Write down your goals, track your progress, and reflect on your overall well-being.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Health Literacy Month is Important

It helps reduce disparities in healthcare

Health literacy is especially important in reducing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among different populations. By equipping individuals with the skills to obtain, process, and understand health information, we can work towards creating a more equitable healthcare system.

It promotes overall health and well-being

Health literacy is the ability to understand and use health information to make informed decisions about one's health. By promoting health literacy, individuals are better equipped to take care of themselves and make choices that positively impact their overall health and well-being.

It creates empowered patients

With increased health literacy comes an empowered patient population - people who are knowledgeable about their own health and the healthcare system, and can advocate for their own needs. This can lead to better communication with healthcare providers, more effective treatment, and ultimately improved health outcomes.

Related holidays

National Health Education Week

Jumpstart your wellness journey during National Health Education Week! Insight, info, and inspiration for a healthier, happier you.

National Medical Librarians Month

Join us in recognizing the hardworking and knowledgeable medical librarians who make a difference every day during National Medical Librarians Month!

National Minority Health Month

It's time to prioritize and celebrate the health of minority communities during National Minority Health Month. Let's work towards a healthier future together!

Eat Better, Eat Together Month

Join the movement and make every meal a memorable one during Eat Better, Eat Together Month - because food always tastes better when shared with loved ones!

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