Promoting Health Literacy from an Early Age: The Danish Perspective

Being acknowledged in the World Happiness Report 2023 as one of the happiest nations in the world, Denmark—along with the other Nordic countries—encounters a high degree of trust and empowerment in political systems. Taking into account the Nordic tax-based welfare model building on free education, healthcare, and social benefits, limited health literacy is a challenge among 20–30% of the population. An ongoing focus on improving health literacy for all is needed to bridge the gap. This chapter presents the promotion of health literacy in Denmark focusing on health literacy among children and adolescents, as a structural intervention in healthcare, and at the nexus of education, health, and civic society. Solutions to challenges and barriers are discussed and related to local, national, and international implications.