A community profile of Internet use in a low-income health clinic in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - DOI: 10.3395/reciis.v7i2.800en

The Internet has revolutionized how people communicate and access information. As this technology becomes increasingly widespread and affordable around the world, it is fundamental to understand how and why people access information online and the role it plays in daily life. Gaps in both Internet access and literacy may further polarize socioeconomic groups. This study sought to create a community profile on Internet use and health-seeking behavior in a low-income population. Researchers conducted both oral questionnaires (n=102) and qualitative interviews (n=17) at a public primary health clinic that caters to a nearby slum complex, during a four-week time period. Of all participants, 60.8% reported using the Internet. The study found that Internet use for health-related information and help was present but not prevalent among participants. According to this study, doctor-patient relationships have only partially permeated the virtual sphere, yet knowledge of available online health information is widespread. Results in this study encourage the use of Internet resources in the implementation of community level public health interventions.