Cyberchondria’s Possible Relationship with Problematic Internet Use and eHealth Literacy

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to reveal the possible relationship between cyberchondria, a new phenomenon occuring with the frequent use of the Internet for health-related information, and problematic internet use (PIU) and electronic health (eHealth) literacy. Our results are important for raising physicians’ awareness, preventing false referrals and reducing health expenses. Methods: Two hundred seventy one subjects who applied to the Esenler Education Family Health Centre-University of Health Sciences Turkey, İstanbul Bağcılar Training and Research Hospital Family Medicine Clinic on the dates between 01.06 and 30.06.2022 and who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Cyberchondria Severity scale-Short Form, Problematic Internet Usage questionnaire-Short Form (PIUQ-SF-6), eHealth Literacy scale, and sociodemographic form were applied. The results were evaluated at a significance level of p<0.05. Results: A statistically significant relationship was found between the Cyberchondria Severity scale and its subcales, the PIUQ-SF-6 and its subscales, and the eHealth literacy scale (p<0.05). The severity of cyberchondria increased as PIU and eHealth literacy scores increased. A statistically significant relationship was found between PIUQ-SF-6 and eHealth literacy (p<0.05). Those with high PIU scores also had high eHealth literacy scores. PIU, cyberchondria severity, and eHealth literacy scores were higher in the 18-30 age group, and cyberchondria severity and eHealth literacy scores were higher among those who had a college degree. Conclusion: The increase in cyberchondria as PIU increases shows that conscious use of the Internet will have positive effects on cyberchondria. Filtering and disseminating correct information in eHealth resources and increasing eHealth literacy will ultimately have a positive impact.