Department of Health and Research, Wellsource, United States
Research Article
The Accuracy of Readability Formulas in Health Content: A Systematic Review
Author(s): Brittany U. Carter*, Kinjalbahen Nayak and Isabella Vembenil
Background: Readability formulas are commonly used to assess the ease in which a reader can understand written text. It is unclear which is best to use when evaluating the readability of health content. This systematic review assessed the accuracy of readability formulas when evaluating health content targeting adults.
Methods: Searches of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Education Resources Information Center from inception through January 31, 2024 were conducted. Two investigators independently reviewed abstracts and full-text articles against a set of a priori inclusion criteria. Studies evaluating the accuracy or validity of readability formulas when
applied to health content for adults were included. Data was analyzed qualitatively.
Results: Three fair-quality studies were included. One study found readability f.. View More»