Objective To investigate the level of health literacy of residents in Jing′an District of Shanghai, providing basis for the intervention programs of health literacy.

Methods By using Probability Proportionate to Size Sampling method, 1 760 residents aged 15-69 were surveyed through face-to-face interviews.

Results The overall level of adjusted health literacy of Jing′an District was 31.89%.The health literacy level of basic health concepts and knowledge, health lifestyle and behaviors, and health related skills were 46.30%, 27.02%, 43.44%, respectively.The 6 health issues regarding awareness of health literacy from high to low were safety and first aid (65.49%), scientific attitude towards health(60.75%), health information literacy(56.86%), chronic diseases prevention (34.22%), basic medical care(31.10%), and infectious diseases prevention (24.28%).People of 65-69 years old had the lowest health literacy level (χ²=22.03, P < 0.05).Those with collage degree or above had higher health literacy level (χ²=43.54, P < 0.05).In terms of occupation, civil servant had higher health literacy level(χ²=22.78, P < 0.05).

Conclusion The level of health literacy in Jing′an District is on a steady rise, however, intensive intervention is needed for residents with lower health literacy.