Digital Health Literacy – results of a representative survey among adults in Germany

Abstract

apply and evaluate digital health information. We conducted a representative survey including 8.500 persons aged 18-75 years, based on an online access panel. All participants filled a questionnaire which covered the seven domains of the Digital Health Literacy Instrument (DHLI). Demographic information for participants was available through existing panel data. Optimal cut points to categorize digital health literacy were developed via regression modelling. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression modelling, comparing the two lower categories of DIHL against high/very high DiHL. Results are presented via odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Overall, 52.4% of respondents were categorized as having low or moderate DiHL (W: 51.2%; M: 53.7%). There were few differences according to age group and migration status. Those with higher educational attainment also scored higher in terms of DiHL. Operative competencies were generally rated high, whereas the evaluation of reliability of content scored lowest. In the regression analysis, the adjusted odds ratio (OR) for limited DiHL was 2.01 (95%CI 1.51;2.67) among those with poor or very poor self-reported health. Digital health literacy addresses a complex set of competencies and resources. More than half of the adult German population report a limited digital health literacy according to this nationwide survey. Impaired health is associated with low digital health literacy, and many have difficulties assessing the reliability of digital content. This is troublesome as more and more health-related information becomes digitalized. Background: The rise of health apps created novel prospects for public health intervention on a wide scale. Despite the popularity of publicly available physical activity (PA) apps, little is known about their effectiveness. This study aimed to investigate the potential of the apps to increase PA. The objectives were: 1) to determine the feasibility of the trial, 2) explore the effects of the apps on behavioural and psychological outcomes Methods: Feasibility randomised crossover trial of two popular apps. Inactive adults residing in London (UK) were eligible. The two interventions were: App A-7 Minute Workout Challenge by