The influence of online health information on the attitude and behavior of people aged 50+

Abstract

E-patients ‘empowered’ by Web information are much more likely to participate in health care decision processes and take responsibility for their own health. The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of Internet use and online health information on the attitude, behavior, and emotions of Polish citizens aged 50+, with special regard to their attitude towards health professionals and the health care system. A total of 323 citizens, aged 50 years and above, who used the Internet for health purposes, were selected from the Polish population by random sampling. The sample collection was carried out by Polish opinion poll agencies in 2005, 2007, and 2012. The Internet was used by 27.8 % of Polish citizens aged 50+ for health purposes in the years 2005–2012. 69.7 % of respondents were looking for health information that might help them to deal with a consultation, 53.9 % turned to the Internet to prepare for a medical appointment, and 63.5 % to assess the outcome of a medical consultation and obtain a ‘second opinion’. The most likely effects of health related use of the Internet were: willingness to change diet or other life-style habits (48.0 % of respondents) and making suggestions or queries on diagnosis or treatment by the doctor (46.1 %). Feelings of reassurance or relief after obtaining information on health or illness were reported by a similar number of respondents as feelings of anxiety and fear (31.0 % and 31.3%respectively). Online health information can affect the attitudes, emotions, and health behaviors of Polish citizens aged 50+ in different ways.