What proportion of adults may lack the skills needed to manage their health and prevent disease?

The correct choice indicates that a significant majority of adults may lack the necessary skills to effectively manage their health and prevent disease. Specifically, stating that 9 out of 10 adults may be in this situation underscores the critical issue of health literacy in society. Health literacy encompasses the ability to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services, which is vital for making informed health decisions.

This choice aligns with various studies and reports that highlight how low health literacy can lead to poorer health outcomes, including difficulty in accessing healthcare, understanding medical information, and adhering to treatment plans. This high proportion reflects widespread challenges in educational systems and healthcare settings to equip individuals with the skills needed to navigate their health proactively.

In contrast, the other options suggest lower proportions that do not convey the same level of urgency or widespread impact regarding health literacy issues among adults. The focus on a substantial figure emphasizes the need for improved communication strategies and educational initiatives that promote health literacy, self-management skills, and disease prevention efforts within communities.