Online health information use among hail city residents: A look into e-health literacy

Abstract

In the context of the rapidly growing availability of online health information, this study explores how adults search for and evaluate such content, focusing on the impact of demographic factors on these processes and the implications for personal health decision-making. A comprehensive survey involving 702 participants provided insights into consent rates, demographic trends, and behaviors related to online health information engagement. The findings revealed that while most adults are comfortable with finding and using healthrelated information online, they experience difficulty in judging its reliability and discerning underlying commercial interests. Search engines and official websites emerged as key sources of information. The study also uncovered variations in how individuals perceive online health information's reliability and ability to use it effectively, which points to a broader need for improving digital health literacy. Given the high willingness to participate in the study and the dominant use of digital sources for health information, especially among women and adults aged 25-34, the research underscores the necessity of enhancing critical evaluation skills for internet users. This could be achieved through targeted educational initiatives to strengthen health literacy, and support informed decision-making regarding health matters.