Use of internet for health information and health seeking behavior among adults: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: In recent era web technology has unlock many new opportunities in health care sector. E-Health literacy is “the ability to understand, and appraise health information from electronic sources and apply the knowledge gained to solve a health problem”. This study aimed to understand the characteristics and preferences of online health information seekers so that online health information providers can create appropriate health information content which will contribute to health management and promotion. Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out in the general population who use internet to access health information. A sample of 400 were selected though convenient sampling. Semi-structured, self-administered, pre-tested online questionnaire using Google forms was sent to participants. Data was entered in Microsoft excel for appropriate statistical analysis. Results: In the present study, 82% (315/400) were using the internet for health information through digital media and 74% believe this could be helpful for raising health awareness. It was observed that among the participants (n=49.5%) looked for the side effects and dosing of common medications followed by disease symptomatology and its diagnosis (n=45%). This study found out that younger age group and literate population were more likely to access health information via internet which was statistically significant. Conclusions: The current study revealed that younger individuals primarily utilize the internet to explore health information. Nearly half of the participants (49.5%) search for information on medications and their side effects online.