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Zhao W, Ding N, Hu H, Tian W, He J, Du M, Zhao C, Zhang G. How Health Anxiety is Associated with Perceived Risk of Reinfection Among COVID-19 Infected People After the Epidemic Control Measures Lifted in China: A Multiple Mediating and Multi-Group Analysis. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2024; 17:4157-4170. [PMID: 39654815 PMCID: PMC11626982 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s493345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 11/28/2024] [Indexed: 12/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background After the lifting of epidemic control measures in China at the end of 2022, the number of COVID-19 infections has increased dramatically. Such an upsurge may intensify people's health anxiety and raise concerns about the risk of reinfection. While numerous studies have shown the correlation between them during the COVID-19, research on their underlying mechanism remains limited. Purpose This study aims to test the relationship and mechanism between health anxiety and perceived risk of reinfection among COVID-19 infected people from different occupational backgrounds. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 24th to 28th, 2022, after the epidemic control measures were lifted. A total of 1122 Chinese individuals were infected with COVID-19 (67.91% females, M age = 28.13) completed measures of health anxiety, perceived risk of reinfection, fear of COVID-19, online health information seeking (OHIS), and COVID-19 information fear of missing out (FOMO). Data were analyzed using multiple-mediation model and multi-group analysis. Results Health anxiety, perceived risk of reinfection, fear of COVID-19, OHIS and COVID-19 information FOMO were positively and significantly related to each other (r ranged from 0.25 to 0.77, all p < 0.001). Fear of COVID-19 (β = 0.27, p < 0.01), OHIS (β = 0.10, p < 0.001), and COVID-19 information FOMO (β = -0.05, p < 0.01) fully mediated the relationship between health anxiety and perceived risk of reinfection, the path of chaining mediation is also significant. Discrepancies in mediation models surfaced across the three types of work groups. Conclusion Findings suggest fear of COVID-19, OHIS and COVID-19 information FOMO may play significant mediating roles in explaining the relationship between health anxiety and perceived risk of reinfection. Interventions to reduce the perceived risk of reinfection should aim to improve the quality of online health information and individuals' online health literacy and reduce fear of COVID-19 during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Zhao
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315302, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Psychology, School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ningning Ding
- Department of Psychology, School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haiyan Hu
- Department of Psychology, School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenwen Tian
- Department of Psychology, School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiankang He
- Department of Psychology, School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingxuan Du
- Department of Psychology, School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chengjia Zhao
- School of Education, Renmin University of China, Beijing, 100872, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guohua Zhang
- Department of Psychology, School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People’s Republic of China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Mental Health, The Affiliated Kangning Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325007, People’s Republic of China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research for Mental Disorders, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, People’s Republic of China
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Elkefi S, Matthews AK. Exploring Health Information-Seeking Behavior and Information Source Preferences Among a Diverse Sample of Cancer Survivors: Implications for Patient Education. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2024; 39:650-662. [PMID: 38807002 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-024-02448-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
This study examined health information-seeking behavior among cancer survivors, including informational sources used and the factors correlated with information-seeking across different racial/ethnic groups. We used data from the Health Information National Trends Survey (2017-2022). Adjusted logistic regression was conducted to identify the predictors of information-seeking by race/ethnicity. Predicting variables were organized into demographic (age, education, race, income, and comorbidity), enabling (having health insurance, having a regular provider, and frequency of care visits), predisposing (quality of care, self-efficacy, and confidence in one's ability to get information), and reinforcing (patient-centered communication, ease of getting information, and confusing information available) factors based on the PRECEDE-PROCEED Model. We included 4723 cancer survivors, of which 15.41% have breast cancer, 17.50% have skin cancer, and 11.11% have prostate cancer. A majority (75.08%) had sought health information. Healthcare providers were the most preferred sources of information across demographic groups, followed by the Internet. Health insurance, a regular provider, and frequent visits were enabling factors that positively influenced information-seeking behavior. Confidence in getting information when needed and self-efficacy were predisposing factors positively associated with the information-seeking behavior. Finally, reinforcing factors (ease of getting information and non-confusion of the information available) were also positively associated with information-seeking. Study findings suggest that one-fourth of cancer survivors had not sought cancer-related information. The results have implications for identifying patients at increased risk for unmet information needs. They also contribute to our understanding of critical racial differences and similarities. Further, findings can help guide interventions to assist in information seeking based on patient preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safa Elkefi
- Department of Research and Scholarship, School of Nursing, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA.
| | - Alicia K Matthews
- Department of Research and Scholarship, School of Nursing, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
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Mitchell SE, Kallen MA, Troost JP, De La Cruz BA, Bragg A, Martin-Howard J, Moldovan I, Miner JA, Jack BW, Carlozzi NE. Four New Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Examining Health-Seeking Behavior in Persons With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (REDD-CAT): Instrument Development Study. JMIR Diabetes 2024; 9:e63434. [PMID: 39576685 PMCID: PMC11624447 DOI: 10.2196/63434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 10/10/2024] [Accepted: 10/11/2024] [Indexed: 11/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) includes mastery of complex care activities, self-management skills, and routine health care encounters to optimize glucose control and achieve good health. Given the lifelong course of T2DM, patients are faced with navigating complex medical and disease-specific information. This health-seeking behavior is a driver of health disparities and is associated with hospitalization and readmission. Given that health-seeking behavior is a potentially intervenable social determinant of health, a better understanding of how people navigate these complex systems is warranted. OBJECTIVE To address this need, we aimed to develop new patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures that evaluate health-seeking behavior in persons with T2DM. These new PROs were designed to be included in the Re-Engineered Discharge for Diabetes-Computer Adaptive Test (REDD-CAT) measurement system, which includes several other PROs that capture the importance of social determinants of health. METHODS Overall, 225 participants with T2DM completed 56 self-report items that examined health-seeking behaviors. Classical Test Theory and Item Response Theory were used for measurement development. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA; criterion ratio of eigenvalue 1 to eigenvalue 2 being >4; variance for eigenvalue 1 ≥40%) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA; criterion 1-factor CFA loading <.50; 1-factor CFA residual correlation >.20; comparative fit index ≥0.90; Tucker-Lewis index ≥0.90; root mean square error of approximation <0.15) were used to determine unidimensional sets of items. Items with sparse responses, low-adjusted total score correlations, nonmonotonicity, low factor loading, and high residual correlations of high error modification indices were candidates for exclusion. A constrained graded response model was used to examine item misfit, and differential item functioning was examined to identify item bias. Cronbach α was used to examine internal consistency reliability for the new PROs (criterion ≥0.70), and floor and ceiling effects were examined (criterion ≤20%). RESULTS Four unidimensional sets of items were supported by EFA (all EFA eigenvalue ratios >4; variance for eigenvalue 1=41.4%-67.3%) and CFA (fit statistics all exceeded criterion values). This included (1) "Health-Seeking Behavior: PCP-Specific" (6 items); (2) "Health-Seeking Behavior: General Beliefs" (13 items); (3) "Health-Seeking Behavior: Family or Friends-Specific" (5 items); and (4) "Health-Seeking Behavior: Internet-Specific" (4 items). All items were devoid of differential item functioning for age, sex, education, or socioeconomic status factors. "Health-Seeking Behavior: General Beliefs" was developed to include both a computer adaptive test and a 6-item short form version; all other PROs were developed as static short forms. The psychometric reliability of these new PROs was supported; internal consistency ranged from acceptable to excellent (Cronbach α=.78-.91), and measures were free of significant floor or ceiling effects (floor effects range: 0%-8.9%; ceiling effects range: 0%-8.4%). CONCLUSIONS The new REDD-CAT Health-Seeking Behavior PROs provide reliable assessments of health-seeking behaviors among those with T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne E Mitchell
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Family Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Michael A Kallen
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Jonathan P Troost
- Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Barbara A De La Cruz
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Alexa Bragg
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Ioana Moldovan
- Department of Family Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jennifer A Miner
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Brian W Jack
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Family Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Noelle E Carlozzi
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Fisse T, Link E, Schrimpff C, Baumann E, Klimmt C. Health Information Repertoires of Implant Patients: Toward a Deeper Understanding of Multiple Source Use and the Role of Health-Related Motives. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:2443-2457. [PMID: 37733032 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2258597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Health information-seeking behavior can be understood as an active and purposeful acquisition of information from selected information sources. It supports patients to cope with medical and health-related uncertainties and enables them to engage in informed decision-making. To obtain health information, patients can turn to a variety of sources, such as going to a physician, exchanging information with their family, or using different Internet sources. Research showed that patients typically use multiple sources to meet their health-related information needs. To attain a holistic and differentiated picture of patients' actual health information behavior, the current study draws on the repertoire approach. We conducted an online survey with 1,105 implant patients and performed a cluster analysis to explore their health information repertoires. To gain a deeper understanding of the practical meaning behind the repertoires, we also considered health-related information motives and socio-structural factors, as well as the implant type (dental, orthopedic, cochlear), to characterize the repertoires. The study revealed seven different health information repertoires of implant patients, varying in their combination of multiple sources used. In addition, group comparisons showed that the repertoires differ significantly regarding socio-structural factors, such as gender, age, and education, as well as implant type. Furthermore, information motives contribute significantly to the differentiation of the repertoires. The results are of high theoretical potential for communication science as well as practical use for strategic health communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Fisse
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media
| | - Elena Link
- Department of Communication, Johannes Gutenberg-University
| | - Charlotte Schrimpff
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media
| | - Eva Baumann
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media
| | - Christoph Klimmt
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media
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Xu Y, Wang M, Bao L, Cheng Z, Li X. A cross-sectional study based on the Comprehensive Model of Information seeking: which factors influence health information-seeking behavior in patients with periodontitis. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:1307. [PMID: 39468496 PMCID: PMC11520456 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-05068-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 10/15/2024] [Indexed: 10/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the current status of health information-seeking behavior (HISB) of periodontitis patients, and to identity its main influencing factors using the Comprehensive Model of Information Seeking (CMIS). METHODS In total, 274 periodontitis patients were recruited from a specialized dental hospital in Hangzhou by purposive sampling method for a cross-sectional study. Demographics, direct experience, salience, beliefs, characteristics and utility were 6 variables of CMIS. Data were collected from the patients by using the general information questionnaire, the Health Information Seeking Behavior Scale, the Self-Efficacy Scale for Self-care (SESS) for measuring belief, the Short Form of Health Literacy Dental Scale (HeLD⁃14) for measuring direct experience, and the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ) for measuring salience. Univariate analysis and regression analysis were utilized to determine the factors influencing the HISB. RESULTS The HISB score of periodontitis patients in this study was 3.68 ± 0.40. The low level of HISB was negatively associated with multiple factors, including age of 40 ~ 59 (odds ratio [OR] 0.041, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.006-0.299), age of 18 ~ 39 (OR 0.053, 95%CI 0.008-0.364), low level of understandability of information (characteristic) [OR 0.317, 95%CI 0.119-0.840] and low level of satisfaction of information (utility) [OR 0.027, 95%CI 0.008-0.089]. However, low level of HISB was positively correlated with medium self-efficacy level [OR 3.112, 95% CI 1.463-6.747] and low self-efficacy level [OR 8.061, 95% CI 1.981-32.807]. CONCLUSIONS According to the CMIS model, we identified several factors influencing health-seeking behaviors (HISB). Lower levels of HISB are closely associated with older age and lower level of understandability and satisfaction of information. Conversely, higher self-efficacy may encourage patients to seek health information more actively. Therefore, it is essential to focus on elderly patients and assess their information expectations and needs in a timely manner, while also working to enhance their self-efficacy to promote more effective access to health information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Xu
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengli Wang
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li Bao
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zijian Cheng
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xiaojun Li
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Meer Z, Al-Ozairi E, Fernandes G, Ranganathan S, Patel J. Information behaviours of people with type 2 diabetes in Kuwait: a grounded theory study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:326. [PMID: 39232660 PMCID: PMC11373242 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02577-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Relative to country-specific epidemiological trends, Kuwait experiences a far greater burden of type 2 diabetes among its population. Information behaviours form a significant component of self-care management for patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, however this remains an understudied aspect of disease management. This study aims to investigate the information behaviours of patients with type 2 diabetes in Kuwait, and characterise the methods employed to manage their disease. METHODS This qualitative study employed a grounded theory method. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-seven participants over three phases of data collection in primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare settings across Kuwait. These were complemented by in-depth interviews to detail the information behaviours of these participants. The interviews were translated where appropriate, transcripts, and analysed through qualitative coding to synthesise the information behaviour patterns. RESULTS The findings demonstrated that living with type 2 diabetes involved a range of developmental and transformative stages, including changes to the patients' emotional state, reconstruction of their lifestyle and identity, and changes in the ways they find and use information. Living with the chronic condition was viewed as a dynamic and transitional process, where patients' information behaviours continually changed throughout the process across various identifiable stages. This dynamic pattern was reflected most prominently across the participants' behavioural needs, sources and information-seeking patterns. CONCLUSION Patients with type 2 diabetes continuously adapted their information behaviours to optimise the self-management of their condition across a relatively predictable pattern. Greater understanding of these behaviours across a wider population would improve the provision of clinical care for patients with diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Meer
- Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Al Dabbus Cardiac Centre Al Adan, Adan Hospital, Hadiya, Kuwait
| | - Ebaa Al-Ozairi
- Clinical Research Unit, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman, Kuwait
| | - Genevie Fernandes
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Jay Patel
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
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Rosenberg D. Searched and found? The association between use of health information sources and success in getting the desired information. Health Info Libr J 2024; 41:235-245. [PMID: 35506593 DOI: 10.1111/hir.12434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although many health information seeking studies are concerned with longer range outcomes (e.g. patient-provider communication) the immediate outcomes for the searchers are whether they found the desired information, for whom and how successfully. OBJECTIVES To examine the association between health information seeking via various sources and the reported extent of success in getting the desired information the information needs perspective. METHODS Data were obtained from the 2017 Israel Social Survey and analysed using multinomial regression models. The sample included individuals who reported engaging in seeking health information prior to the survey and mentioned the extent of success in obtaining the desired health information (fully, partially, or not-at-all) (N = 2197). Multinominal regression technique served for the multivariable analysis. DISCUSSION Engagement in health information seeking via friends, family and using various websites (excluding those by Ministry of Health and Health Funds) was associated with the increased likelihood of partial success in getting the desired information. Education level and population group, affected level of success. CONCLUSIONS The (partial) success in meeting health consumers' information needs is associated with the turn to particular sources. Public health professionals and health provider institutions should improve provision and delivery of health information to meet consumer health information needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Rosenberg
- University of Jyvaskyla, Jyvaskyla, Finland
- University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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O'Mahony J, Happell B, O'Connell R. "It was a reflection of myself, that i was weak": The impact of depression on the sense of self - An interpretive phenomenological analysis. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2024; 33:907-916. [PMID: 38235852 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The World Health Organisation states that more than 350 million people experience depression globally. The phenomenological changes in individuals experiencing depression are profound Phenomenological research can further researchers' and clinicians' understanding of this experience. This study aimed to gain a phenomenological understanding of how individuals with depression understood and made sense of their experiences. A methodology of interpretative phenomenological analysis was adopted. In-depth semi-structured interviews explored the lived experience of depression for eight individuals. Data were analysed into the superordinate theme Broken Self - Transforming the Self. The superordinate theme developed from the subordinate themes of 'unknown self, loss of self and one's identity', 'desperate for a way out', and thirdly, 'conflict with self and what's known', which related directly to how individuals made sense of their experience of depression. These research findings highlight the human implications of the experience of depression and the limitations of viewing depression from a biological or medical model lens. Understanding the human impact is essential for the effective, holistic practice of mental health nursing.
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Affiliation(s)
- James O'Mahony
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, County Cork, Ireland
| | - Brenda Happell
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, County Cork, Ireland
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, East Lismore, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rhona O'Connell
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, County Cork, Ireland
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Fair H, Doust YV, Bye N, Vickers JC, Padgett C, Ziebell JM. Who is seeking information about traumatic brain injury? Characterizing online course participants. Health Promot Int 2024; 39:daae077. [PMID: 38980690 PMCID: PMC11232464 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daae077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Accessible, up-to-date information on traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be challenging to find and is needed to address TBI knowledge gaps and improve outcomes for people who experience a TBI. The Understanding TBI Massive Open Online Course (TBI MOOC) was developed to increase TBI knowledge across a diverse global audience. We sought to characterize the TBI MOOC participant cohort, to understand the reach of the course among this target audience. Examining the characteristics of TBI MOOC enrollees showed that participants came from a wide range of demographic backgrounds, had a variety of TBI experiences and had multiple reasons for enrolling in the MOOC. The majority of course participants shared some characteristics with other groups of health information seekers. Four distinct demographic profiles were identified among TBI MOOC participants (education seekers, TBI-aware participants, TBI care providers and retirees) using a novel approach combining chi-squared tests and network modularity. Participants assigned to the TBI-aware and retiree profiles were most likely to complete all modules of the MOOC, and the TBI-aware profile was more highly represented in more recent iterations of the MOOC. Together, these data indicate that the TBI MOOC provided information to a wide range of people, and particularly engaged participants with personal or family experience of TBI. However, engagement with this course was minimal among some hard-to-reach populations, including men and people with low levels of education, indicating that additional strategies are needed to ensure equity in health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Fair
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Yasmine V Doust
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Nicole Bye
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Churchill Avenue, Hobart 7001, Tasmania, Australia
| | - James C Vickers
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Christine Padgett
- School of Psychological Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Churchill Avenue, Hobart 7001, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Jenna M Ziebell
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia
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Bachl M, Link E, Mangold F, Stier S. Search Engine Use for Health-Related Purposes: Behavioral Data on Online Health Information-Seeking in Germany. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:1651-1664. [PMID: 38326714 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2024.2309810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Internet searches for health-related purposes are common, with search engines like Google being the most popular starting point. However, results on the popularity of health information-seeking behaviors are based on self-report data, often criticized for suffering from incomplete recall, overreporting, and low reliability. Therefore, the current study builds on user-centric tracking of Internet use to reveal how individuals actually behave online. We conducted a secondary analysis of passively recorded Internet use logs to examine the prevalence of health-related search engine use, the types of health information searched for, and the sources visited after the searches. The analysis revealed two key findings. 1) We largely support earlier survey-based findings on the prevalence of online health information seeking with search engines and the relatively minor differences in information-seeking behaviors between socio-demographic groups. 2) We provide a more granular picture of the process of HISB using search engines by identifying different selection patterns depending on the scope of the searches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Bachl
- Institute for Media and Communication Studies, Department of Political and Social Sciences, Freie Universität Berlin
| | - Elena Link
- Department of Communication, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
| | - Frank Mangold
- Department Computational Social Science, GESIS - Leibniz Institute for the Social Sciences
| | - Sebastian Stier
- Department Computational Social Science, GESIS - Leibniz Institute for the Social Sciences
- School of Social Sciences, University of Mannheim
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11
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Crul TC, Hacking EC, Visser-Meily JMA, Post MWM, Stolwijk-Swüste JM. Choosing non-pharmacological treatments for neuropathic pain in spinal cord injury: a qualitative study. Disabil Rehabil 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38840332 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2024.2362402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aims of this study were to explore (1) the considerations of people with spinal cord injury (SCI) in choosing to use non-pharmacological treatments (N-PTs) for neuropathic pain (NP), (2) which factors influence their decision and who is involved in this choice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Eleven individuals with SCI and NP were interviewed. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, transcripts were analysed through thematic coding, following an inductive content analysis approach. RESULTS A journey towards finding and choosing N-PTs emerged. Key phases in this journey were: motives, strategy and practical considerations. Pain and its impact on their life led participants to consider N-PTs. Motives were participants' negative attitudes towards regular medication, willingness to try everything and disappointment and frustration with the guidance from their health care provider (HCP). The search strategies often involved third parties and the internet. This led them to choose a specific N-PT. The journey was influenced by one's attitude, previous personal experience, experience of HCPs, financial considerations, availability and convenience of the treatment. CONCLUSIONS The journey individuals with SCI and NP go through to find N-PTs to manage pain is difficult and often lonely. Findings highlight the importance of HCPs accompanying people with SCI in finding N-PTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- T C Crul
- Centre of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - E C Hacking
- Centre of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J M A Visser-Meily
- Centre of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science & Sports, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M W M Post
- Centre of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Centre for Rehabilitation, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - J M Stolwijk-Swüste
- Centre of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Spinal Cord Injury and Orthopedics, De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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12
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Sætre LMS, Raasthøj I, Lauridsen GB, Balasubramaniam K, Haastrup P, Rasmussen S, Eilerskov N, Søndergaard J, Storsveen MM, Wehberg S, Jarbøl DE. Revisiting the symptom iceberg based on the Danish symptom cohort - Symptom experiences and healthcare-seeking behaviour in the general Danish population in 2022. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31090. [PMID: 38803940 PMCID: PMC11128908 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Healthcare-seeking behaviour may change over time, and some groups are more likely to avoid relevant help seeking, which possibly contributes to social inequity in health. Thus, we developed an expansion of and follow-up to the Danish Symptom Cohort (DaSC) from 2012 and formed the DaSC II, which encompassed a population-based questionnaire study investigating symptoms and healthcare-seeking behaviour. In this paper, we describe the conceptual framework, development and content validity of the questionnaire and a responder analysis of the participants in the DaSC II. We present the symptom iceberg in the Danish general population by estimating the prevalence of symptoms and proportion of contacts to general practitioners (GPs) in 2022. Moreover, we discuss differences in healthcare-seeking behaviour with reference to the 2012 DaSC. Methods 100,000 randomly selected Danish citizens aged ≥20 years, along with the 44,713 respondents from the 2012 cohort, were invited to participate in a survey. The questionnaire was pilot and field tested prior to distribution. Descriptive statistics were used to estimate symptom prevalence and proportion of GP contacts, and to execute the respondent analysis. Results Nine out of ten respondents reported at least one symptom within the preceding four weeks and reported an average of 4.6 symptoms. One in four symptoms were presented to a GP. The highest proportion of GP contacts was found for haematuria (63.3 %) and shortness of breath (51.8 %). For several symptoms, differences between the sexes were found in relation to both prevalence and GP contacts. The proportion of GP contacts was higher in 2022 than in 2012 and was most pronounced for general, frequently experienced symptoms and to a lesser extent for cancer alarm symptoms. Conclusion Many symptoms go unreported, which may delay relevant diagnosis; more research on certain symptom categories and population subgroups is needed. Future studies based on the DaSC II form a basis for interventions targeting symptom awareness, healthcare-seeking behaviour and social equity in society and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Maria Sele Sætre
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Isabella Raasthøj
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Gitte Bruun Lauridsen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Kirubakaran Balasubramaniam
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Peter Haastrup
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Sanne Rasmussen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Natasja Eilerskov
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Jens Søndergaard
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Maria Munch Storsveen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Sonja Wehberg
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Dorte Ejg Jarbøl
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
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Wang Y, Zhang Y, Guo T, Han J, Fu G. Knowledge level and health information-seeking behavior of people with diabetes in rural areas: a multicenter cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1285114. [PMID: 38751583 PMCID: PMC11094202 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1285114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is a lack of research on the current level of diabetes knowledge and health information-seeking behaviors among patients with diabetes in rural areas of China's economically underdeveloped regions during COVID-19, as well as a lack of up-to-date evidence on glycemic control and the incidence of complications among rural patients with diabetes. Objectives To investigate the prevalence of glycemic control and complications among patients with diabetes in rural areas, to explore the current status and correlation of diabetes knowledge level and health information-seeking behavior, and to analyze the factors affecting diabetes knowledge level. Methods From January 2022 to July 2022, we conducted a screening on diabetic complications and a questionnaire survey among 2,178 patients with diabetes in 15 county hospitals in rural areas of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The patients' knowledge level and health information-seeking behavior were investigated. Spearman correlation analysis was used to assess the correlation between diabetes knowledge and health information-seeking behavior. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to test how demographic information and health information-seeking behavior influenced the level of diabetes knowledge. Results Of 2,178 patients with diabetes in rural areas, 1,684 (77.32%) had poor glycemic control, and the prevalence of diabetic complications was estimated to be 72.13%. Patients with diabetes had poor diabetes knowledge and health information-seeking behavior, and there is a strong positive correlation between them. Diabetes knowledge level was influenced by per capita household disposable income, occupational status, gender, age, ethnicity, family history of diabetes, insulin use, glycated hemoglobin, education level, number of complications and health information-seeking behavior. Conclusion Patients with diabetes in rural areas have poor glycemic control and a high incidence of diabetic complications. Patients with diabetes in rural areas have poor knowledge and inadequate health information-seeking behavior. Systematic and standardized education should be provided to improve patients' diabetes knowledge and thus improve their self-management ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudong Wang
- Department of Nursing, Liaocheng People’s Hospital, Liaocheng, China
- Department of Geriatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, The People’s Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Yanping Zhang
- Department of Geriatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, The People’s Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Tingting Guo
- Department of Nursing, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
- School of Nursing, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Jiaxia Han
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The People’s Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Guifen Fu
- Department of Nursing, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
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Saenger JA, Hunger J, Boss A, Richter J. Delayed diagnosis of a transient ischemic attack caused by ChatGPT. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2024; 136:236-238. [PMID: 38305909 PMCID: PMC11006786 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-024-02329-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Techniques of artificial intelligence (AI) are increasingly used in the treatment of patients, such as providing a diagnosis in radiological imaging, improving workflow by triaging patients or providing an expert opinion based on clinical symptoms; however, such AI techniques also hold intrinsic risks as AI algorithms may point in the wrong direction and constitute a black box without explaining the reason for the decision-making process.This article outlines a case where an erroneous ChatGPT diagnosis, relied upon by the patient to evaluate symptoms, led to a significant treatment delay and a potentially life-threatening situation. With this case, we would like to point out the typical risks posed by the widespread application of AI tools not intended for medical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Saenger
- Diagnostic and interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, University Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, GZO Hospital Wetzikon, Wetzikon, Switzerland.
| | - Jonathan Hunger
- Department of Internal Medicine, GZO Hospital Wetzikon, Wetzikon, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Boss
- Diagnostic and interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, University Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, GZO Hospital Wetzikon, Wetzikon, Switzerland.
| | - Johannes Richter
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, GZO Hospital Wetzikon, Wetzikon, Switzerland
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, GZO Hospital Wetzikon, Wetzikon, Switzerland
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Narine D, Yamashita T, Punksungka W, Helsinger A, Kramer JW, Karam R, Cummins PA. Reliance on Social Networks and Health Professionals for Health Information in the U.S. Adult Population. J Immigr Minor Health 2024; 26:287-293. [PMID: 37864640 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-023-01556-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
The subpopulation of adults depends on non-online health information sources including their social networks and health professionals, to the exclusion of online sources. In view of the digital divide and health information disparities, the roles of race/ethnicity and digital skills are yet to be explored. A nationally representative sample of 6,830 adults from the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) was analyzed, using binary logistic regression. Black adults and adults with higher digital skills were less likely to be reliant on non-online health information sources, compared to White adults and those with lower digital skills, respectively. Differences in non-online health information source reliance by race/ethnicity and digital skills might be further nuanced by the relevant demographic and socioeconomic characteristics. Increasing digital skills may expand one's health information sources to include reliable online sources and empower adults to promote their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donnette Narine
- Gerontology Doctoral Program, University of Maryland Baltimore County, PUP 216, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD, 21250, USA.
| | - Takashi Yamashita
- Gerontology Doctoral Program, University of Maryland Baltimore County, PUP 216, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD, 21250, USA
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Public Health, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Wonmai Punksungka
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | | | - Jenna W Kramer
- RAND Corporation, Washington Office, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Rita Karam
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica Office, Santa Monica, CA, USA
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Windrim EB, McGuire BE, Durand H. Women's experiences of seeking healthcare for abdominal pain in Ireland: a qualitative study. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:166. [PMID: 38454395 PMCID: PMC10921746 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-02995-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that women's abdominal pain is more likely to be minimised or dismissed by healthcare professionals than men's. This can have a detrimental impact on health-related outcomes as well as quality of life. The aim of this study was to explore women's experiences of seeking healthcare for abdominal pain in Ireland. METHOD A qualitative design and opportunity sampling approach were employed in this study. Fourteen women living in Ireland with experience of seeking healthcare for abdominal pain took part in one-to-one semi-structured interviews via video-conferencing software. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Four themes were constructed from the data: [1] "Just Get on with It" - Normalisation and Invalidation; [2] "Bad Enough"? Costs of (Not) Seeking Help; [3] "Fight Your Case," Fight for Care; and [4] "Out of the Loop" - Systemic Barriers to Care. Perceived invalidation of pain by healthcare professionals was common, as was internalised normalisation of pain. This created challenges when negotiating pain management solutions. Despite functional interference, participants felt their pain needed to reach an extreme level of severity before seeking help. Costs of private healthcare were implicated in delayed help-seeking. Participants felt the onus was on them to fight for care. Social support and information-seeking facilitated participants in this fight while systemic issues were identified as barriers to adequate care. Despite their frustrations, participants expressed empathy for healthcare professionals operating in a flawed system. CONCLUSIONS Participants described mostly negative experiences of seeking healthcare for abdominal pain, characterised by dismissal of symptoms and internalisation of normative views of women's pain as less worthy of care. These experiences reinforced participants' views that self-advocacy is essential to access care for their pain. There are systemic issues at play within the Irish healthcare system that limit women's ability to access abdominal pain management support. Education and training for healthcare professionals on the Gender Pain Gap and its implications for patient care, as well as clear referral pathways for women presenting with abdominal pain, may help to ensure more equitable healthcare delivery for individuals with abdominal pain in Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian E McGuire
- School of Psychology, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Centre for Pain Research, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Hannah Durand
- Division of Psychology, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland.
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Long SE, Lama Y, D'Angelo H. Digital Communication Inequalities Among U.S. Adults Reporting Current Cigarette Use. Am J Prev Med 2024; 66:307-314. [PMID: 37793558 PMCID: PMC10842098 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2023.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To reduce tobacco-related health problems, it is critical to reach people who smoke with smoking cessation information and treatment. However, digital communication inequalities may limit access to online information sources. METHODS Digital device ownership, high-speed internet access, and online health information-seeking were examined among adults reporting current smoking in the Health Information National Trends Survey (n=847). Data were collected in 2019 and 2020 and analyzed in 2022. Multivariable logistic regression models examined associations between demographics, digital technology access, and online health information-seeking. RESULTS Only 47.6% (95% CI 39.0%, 56.3%) of adults aged 65+, 54.2% of Black/African American adults (95% CI 37.8%, 69.8%), and 59.6% with high school or less education (95% CI 51.5%, 67.1%) reported high-speed internet access (vs. 74.0% overall, 95% CI 68.9%, 78.6%). Inequalities in device ownership, high-speed internet access, and online health information-seeking were found by education and income. Adults with high school or less education (vs. college or more) had 78% lower odds of digital device ownership (aOR 0.22, 95% CI 0.08, 0.59) and 75% lower odds of high-speed internet access (aOR 0.25, 95% CI 0.09, 0.71). High-speed internet access (vs. no digital device or high-speed internet) was associated with 4.9 times greater odds of online health information-seeking (95% CI 1.81, 13.4). CONCLUSIONS Digital communication inequalities among adults who smoke exist. Understanding digital technology access among lower income populations could inform the development and delivery of interventions and health communication strategies to improve health outcomes among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuki Lama
- National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
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18
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Ni Z, Zhu L, Li S, Zhang Y, Zhao R. Characteristics and associated factors of health information-seeking behaviour among patients with inflammatory bowel disease in the digital era: a scoping review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:307. [PMID: 38279086 PMCID: PMC10821566 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17758-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health Information-Seeking Behaviour (HISB) is necessary for self-management and medical decision-making among patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). With the advancement of information technology, health information needs and seeking are reshaped among patients with IBD. This scoping review aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of HISB of people with IBD in the digital age. METHODS This scoping review adhered to Arksey and O'Malley's framework and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews frameworks (PRISMA-ScR). A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and three Chinese databases from January 1, 2010 to April 10, 2023. Employing both deductive and inductive content analysis, we scrutinized studies using Wilson's model. RESULTS In total, 56 articles were selected. Within the information dimension of HISB among patients with IBD, treatment-related information, particularly medication-related information, was identified as the most critical information need. Other information requirements included basic IBD-related information, daily life and self-management, sexual and reproductive health, and other needs. In the sources dimension, of the eight common sources of information, the internet was the most frequently mentioned source of information, while face-to-face communication with healthcare professionals was the preferred source. Associated factors were categorized into six categories: demographic characteristics, psychological aspects, role-related or interpersonal traits, environmental aspects, source-related characteristics, and disease-related factors. Moreover, the results showed five types of HISB among people with IBD, including active searching, ongoing searching, passive attention, passive searching, and avoid seeking. Notably, active searching, especially social information seeking, appeared to be the predominant common type of HISB among people with IBD in the digital era. CONCLUSION Information needs and sources for patients with IBD exhibit variability, and their health information-seeking behaviour is influenced by a combination of diverse factors, including resource-related and individual factors. Future research should focus on the longitudinal changes in HISB among patients with IBD. Moreover, efforts should be made to develop information resources that are both convenient and provide credible information services, although the development of such resources requires further investigation and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Ni
- Nursing Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Department of Nursing, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingli Zhu
- Nursing Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Department of Nursing, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuyan Li
- Nursing Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yuping Zhang
- Nursing Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Ruiyi Zhao
- Nursing Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
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Zhong X, Cui Y, Wen L, Li S, Gao Z, Zang S, Zhang M, Bai X. Health information-seeking experience in people with head and neck neoplasms undergoing treatment: a qualitative study. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:128. [PMID: 38261108 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08329-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the health information-seeking experience and its influencing factors of people with head and neck neoplasms undergoing treatment. METHODS This was a descriptive phenomenology study. Participants were recruited by purposive sampling. The semistructured interviews and all observation results were recorded. The data were analysed using Colaizzi's method. RESULTS Fourteen participants were selected. We identified four themes that illustrate factors that influence the health information-seeking behaviour of participants: patients' awareness of health information needs, patients' competence, doctor-patient communication, and online advertising interference. We also determined the value of different types of information and patients' information needs and sources. CONCLUSION These findings can help professionals understand patients' behaviours and think about how to deliver practical information support in a network environment to guide patients in continuous information seeking while taking specific factors into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zhong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, No.210, Baita 1st Street, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110167, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Cui
- School of Nursing, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116000, People's Republic of China
| | - Liying Wen
- Department of Operating Room, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110167, People's Republic of China
| | - Siyu Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, No.210, Baita 1st Street, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110167, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuoran Gao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, No.210, Baita 1st Street, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110167, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuang Zang
- Department of Community Nursing, School of Nursing, China Medical University, Shenyang, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Miao Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, No.210, Baita 1st Street, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110167, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinghua Bai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, No.210, Baita 1st Street, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110167, People's Republic of China.
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Shaw G, Castro BA, Gunn LH, Norris K, Thorpe RJ. The Association of eHealth Literacy Skills and mHealth Application Use Among US Adults With Obesity: Analysis of Health Information National Trends Survey Data. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2024; 12:e46656. [PMID: 38198196 PMCID: PMC10809169 DOI: 10.2196/46656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical inactivity and a poor diet are modifiable behaviors that contribute to obesity. Obesity is a well-recognized risk factor for chronic diseases, including diabetes. Mobile health (mHealth) apps can play an important adjuvant role in preventing and treating chronic diseases and promoting positive health behavior change among people with obesity, and eHealth literacy skills have the potential to impact mHealth app use. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to explore the associations between the 2 dimensions, access and application, of eHealth literacy skills and mHealth app use among US adults (≥18 years of age) with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). METHODS Data were obtained from February to June 2020 using the Health Information National Trends Survey 5. A total of 1079 respondents met the inclusion criteria of adults with obesity and owners of smartphones. Individual associations between mHealth app use and sociodemographic variables were explored using weighted chi-square and 2-tailed t tests. A multivariable weighted logistic regression model was fitted, and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of using mHealth apps with corresponding 95% CIs were reported across multiple sociodemographic variables. An Ising model-weighted network visualization was produced. A receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated, and the area under the curve was reported with the corresponding Delong 95% CI. RESULTS A majority of respondents were female (550/923, 59.6%) or non-Hispanic White (543/923, 58.8%). Individuals in households earning less than US $50,000 comprised 41.4% (382/923) of the sample. All sociodemographic variables were found to be univariately significant at the 5% level, except employment and region. Results from the multivariable weighted logistic regression model showed that the adjusted odds of using an mHealth app are 3.13 (95% CI 1.69-5.80) and 2.99 (95% CI 1.67-5.37) times higher among those with an access eHealth literacy skill of using an electronic device to look for health or medical information for themselves and an application eHealth literacy skill of using electronic communications with a doctor or doctor's office, respectively. Several sociodemographic variables were found to be significant, such as education, where adjusted ORs comparing subgroups to the lowest educational attainment were substantial (ORs ≥7.77). The network visualization demonstrated that all eHealth literacy skills and the mHealth app use variable were positively associated to varying degrees. CONCLUSIONS This work provides an initial understanding of mHealth app use and eHealth literacy skills among people with obesity, identifying people with obesity subpopulations who are at risk of a digital health divide. Future studies should identify equitable solutions for people with obesity (as well as other groups) and their use of mHealth apps.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Shaw
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Data Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Bianca A Castro
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Laura H Gunn
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Data Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Keith Norris
- The University of California Los Angeles Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Roland J Thorpe
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Lountzi AZ, Durand H. Help-seeking experiences and intimate partner support in vulvodynia: A qualitative exploration. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 20:17455057241241866. [PMID: 38554074 PMCID: PMC10981854 DOI: 10.1177/17455057241241866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvodynia is a poorly understood chronic pain condition characterized by persistent and unexplained pain in the vulva. Given the intimate nature of the pain, partners may play an important role in promoting self-management and help-seeking behaviours among women with vulvodynia. OBJECTIVES The current study aimed to explore the role of partner support in pain experiences and help-seeking behaviours among women with vulvodynia. DESIGN A qualitative interpretive design was used. METHODS Ten women with vulvodynia (M age = 37.9 years) were interviewed using a semi-structured non-directive topic guide. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Three themes around help-seeking experiences were constructed from the data: (1) 'It's Been a Battle' - Failed by the Healthcare System; (2) 'It's Just the Vulva' - Dismissed by Healthcare Professionals; and (3) 'I Diagnosed Myself' - The Patient Becomes the Expert. Participants described negative help-seeking experiences characterized by long delays to diagnosis, lack of awareness and understanding from healthcare professionals, minimization of symptoms, and having to advocate for and demand care. A further three themes pertaining to partner support were also developed: (1) 'That Person to Listen to You' - Source of Emotional Support; (2) 'Why Don't You Try This?' - Finding Solutions Together; and (3) 'He Forgets that it's Still There' - Vulvodynia is a Foreign Concept. Partners provided emotional support and showed empathy and understanding, and practical support by accompanying women to medical appointments and help with pain management. However, participants felt partners' understanding of vulvodynia was limited and that this impacted their relationships. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight a lack of continuity of care and multidisciplinary approach to treatment, with help-seeking experiences being mainly negative in this sample. Increasing public awareness of vulvodynia and improving healthcare access is crucial to improving physical and psychological outcomes for this group. Partners can play an important role in supporting people with vulvodynia; however, other outlets of support should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athina Zoi Lountzi
- Division of Psychology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Hannah Durand
- Division of Psychology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
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Rouvinen H, Turunen H, Lindfors P, Kinnunen JM, Rimpelä A, Koivusilta L, Kulmala M, Dadaczynski K, Okan O, Sormunen M. Online health information-seeking behaviour and mental well-being among Finnish higher education students during COVID-19. Health Promot Int 2023; 38:daad143. [PMID: 37935171 PMCID: PMC10635413 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daad143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Online health information-seeking behaviour has increased since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic in March 2020. This study examined whether health-related information on COVID-19 searched on the internet was associated with mental well-being among higher education students. A cross-sectional internet survey was conducted among 18- to 34-year-old students in Finland (N = 2976; mean age 24.61 years and median 24) in the spring of 2020. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's chi-square tests, Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric H tests, and a two-way ANOVA. The results indicated that most students (86% of females, 82% of males) used the internet to search for information on COVID-19. Students' self-perceived abilities to determine the relevance of online information on COVID-19 were associated with mental well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Rouvinen
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonrinne 3, Canthia Building, PO Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Hannele Turunen
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonrinne 3, Canthia Building, PO Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
- Wellbeing Services County of North Savo, PO Box 1711, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Pirjo Lindfors
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Unit of Health Sciences, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Jaana M Kinnunen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Unit of Health Sciences, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Arja Rimpelä
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Unit of Health Sciences, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
- Department of Adolescent Psychiatry, Tampere University Hospital, Elämänaukio 2, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Leena Koivusilta
- Department of Social Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Turku, FI-20014, Turku, Finland
| | - Markus Kulmala
- Research Centre for Health Promotion, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Keskussairaalankatu 4, Building Liikunta (L), PO Box 35, FI-40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Kevin Dadaczynski
- Department of Health Science, Fulda University of Applied Sciences, Fulda, Germany
- Centre for Applied Health Science, Leuphana University, Lueneburg, Germany
| | - Orkan Okan
- Center for Health and Medicine in Society and Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Childhood and Adolescence, Department of Health and Sport Sciences, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marjorita Sormunen
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonrinne 3, Canthia building, PO Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
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23
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Link E, Baumann E, Aluttis C. [A gendered perspective of information behaviors, its drivers, and barriers : Results of an online survey of a sample stratified for the German population]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2023; 66:1153-1162. [PMID: 37668610 PMCID: PMC10539188 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-023-03757-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gender perspective is an essential level of effective health communication approaches. Against the background of the gender perspective as an essential level of effective health communication approaches, we focus on health-related information behaviors. Complementary to information seeking, information avoidance is included. Both forms of information behavior are described in gender-specific ways, and their predictors are identified using a resource-centered approach covering the individual's health, empowerment, involvement, and social support. METHOD An online survey of a sample stratified for the German population (N = 3000) was conducted. The two modes of information behavior as well as their theoretically derived predictors were assessed. In addition to descriptive analyses, blockwise regression analyses were used to identify gender-specific predictors of information seeking and avoidance. RESULTS Information seeking occurs more frequently than information avoidance. Both differ only slightly between men and women and showed the strongest correlations with the respondents' involvement. For information seeking, coping resources are also a significant predictor, while information avoidance is associated with psychological well-being and social support. Similar patterns of association emerge across genders. CONCLUSION Across genders, it is evident that health communication measures should strengthen the involvement of the population and their coping resources to promote information seeking and counteract information avoidance. Additionally, the findings revealed that avoiders should be more focused as one of the main target groups of health communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Link
- Institut für Publizistik, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Jakob-Welder-Weg 12, 55128, Mainz, Deutschland.
| | - Eva Baumann
- Institut für Journalistik und Kommunikationsforschung, Hochschule für Musik, Theater und Medien Hannover, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - Christoph Aluttis
- Referat Q6 - Erwachsene, Ältere, Frauen- und Männergesundheit, Chancengleichheit, Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung, Köln, Deutschland
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Raps SJ, Chen D, Bakken S, Caban J, Engler MB. Baseline eHealth Behaviors of Service Members: A Retrospective, Cross-Sectional Analysis of Patient Portal Use Before the Pandemic. Mil Med 2023; 188:e2598-e2605. [PMID: 35766515 PMCID: PMC9384380 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usac168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of electronic health (eHealth) tools has the potential to support the overall health, wellness, fitness status, and ability to deploy worldwide of active duty service members (SMs). Additionally, the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic forced healthcare organizations to quickly convert to virtual care settings to decrease face-to-face interactions and increase access to healthcare using technology. The shift to virtual care and the push to increase use of eHealth tools heightened the need to understand how military members interact with eHealth tools. Little is known about the factors that influence SMs use of eHealth tools and if having a health condition increases or decreases use. To evaluate these factors, we completed a cross-sectional, retrospective analysis on a sample of 198,388 active duty SMs aged 18 to 68 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used two Military Health System (MHS) data sources-Tricare Online (TOL) Patient Portal 2018 audit logs and outpatient electronic health record data. Using eHealth behaviors identified in the audit logs, we evaluated and compared individual characteristics (i.e., "gender", "age", "race", and "marital status"), environmental factors (i.e., "rank", "military branch", and "geographic location"), and six available health conditions (i.e., congenital health defects, amputation, anxiety, sleep, traumatic brain injury, and depression). Since moderate usage of eHealth tools is linked to improved health outcomes, adherence, communication, and increased consumer satisfaction, a logistic regression model was developed to find the factors most associated with moderate (3-11 logins per year) use of the portal. RESULTS Electronic health use increased by SMs with underlying health conditions or if they were managing family member health. Most SMs who used the TOL Patient Portal were of ages 25-34 years, White, and married. The mean age is 32.53 for males and 29.98 for females. Over half of the TOL Patient Portal SM users utilized the portal one to two times. Most SMs used the TOL Patient Portal in Virginia, Texas, California, Florida, North Carolina, Georgia, and Maryland. The highest use was during the months of March to May. Frequent patient portal actions include searching for appointments, viewing health information, viewing medical encounters, and refilling medications. Although SMs with congenital health defects, anxiety, sleep issues, and depression have higher patient portal use rates, SMs with depression have a negative association with using the patient portal at a "moderate" rate. Viewing family member health information and searching for appointments were strongly associated with patient portal moderate use. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support top military initiatives to improve the overall health, wellness, and readiness of SMs while decreasing the MHS's overall cost of care while providing a foundation to compare "pre" and "post" pandemic eHealth behaviors. It is essential to note that SMs are more likely to use a patient portal to seek information or manage family member health. This key factor identifies the significance of family health promotion and readiness in the active duty SM's life. The long-term goal of our study is to build the foundation for delivering tailored health information and eHealth tools to promote health and readiness-centric patient engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie J Raps
- Science and Technology, 59th Medical Group, Lackland, TX 78236, USA
| | - Dechang Chen
- School of Medicine, Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Suzanne Bakken
- Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Jesus Caban
- Clinical & Research Informatics, National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Mary B Engler
- Graduate School of Nursing, Ph.D in Nursing Science Program, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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Grimm M, Link E, Albrecht M, Czerwinski F, Baumann E, Suhr R. Exploring Functions and Predictors of Digital Health Engagement Among German Internet Users: Survey Study. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44024. [PMID: 37379058 PMCID: PMC10365627 DOI: 10.2196/44024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital health engagement may serve many support functions, such as providing access to information; checking or evaluating one's state of health; and tracking, monitoring, or sharing health data. Many digital health engagement behaviors are associated with the potential to reduce inequalities in information and communication. However, initial studies suggest that health inequalities may persist in the digital realm. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the functions of digital health engagement by describing how frequently respective services are used for a range of purposes and how these purposes can be categorized from the users' perspective. This study also aimed to identify the prerequisites for successfully implementing and using digital health services; therefore, we shed light on the predisposing, enabling, and need factors that may predict digital health engagement for different functions. METHODS Data were gathered via computer-assisted telephone interviews during the second wave of the German adaption of the Health Information National Trends Survey in 2020 (N=2602). The weighted data set allowed for nationally representative estimates. Our analysis focused on internet users (n=2001). Engagement with digital health services was measured by their reported use for 19 different purposes. Descriptive statistics showed the frequency with which digital health services were used for these purposes. Using a principal component analysis, we identified the underlying functions of these purposes. Using binary logistic regression models, we analyzed which predisposing factors (age and sex), enabling factors (socioeconomic status, health- and information-related self-efficacy, and perceived target efficacy), and need factors (general health status and chronic health condition) can predict the use of the distinguished functions. RESULTS Digital health engagement was most commonly linked to acquiring information and less frequently to more active or interactive purposes such as sharing health information with other patients or health professionals. Across all purposes, the principal component analysis identified 2 functions. Information-related empowerment comprised items on acquiring health information in various forms, critically assessing one's state of health, and preventing health problems. In total, 66.62% (1333/2001) of internet users engaged in this behavior. Health care-related organization and communication included items on patient-provider communication and organizing health care. It was applied by 52.67% (1054/2001) of internet users. Binary logistic regression models showed that the use of both functions was determined by predisposing factors (female and younger age) and certain enabling factors (higher socioeconomic status) and need factors (having a chronic condition). CONCLUSIONS Although a large share of German internet users engage with digital health services, predictors show that existing health-related disparities prevail in the digital realm. To make use of the potential of digital health services, fostering digital health literacy at different levels, especially in vulnerable groups, is key.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elena Link
- Department of Communication, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Fabian Czerwinski
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, University of Music, Drama and Media Hanover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Eva Baumann
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, University of Music, Drama and Media Hanover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Ralf Suhr
- Stiftung Gesundheitswissen, Berlin, Germany
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Gillespie CS, Khanna S, Vivian ME, McKoy S, Yanez Touzet A, Edlmann E, Stubbs DJ, Davies BM. Is information provided within chronic subdural haematoma education resources adequate? A scoping review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283958. [PMID: 37023014 PMCID: PMC10079037 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH) is becoming increasingly prevalent, due to an aging population with increasing risk factors. Due to its variable disease course and high morbidity, patient centred care and shared decision making are essential. However, its occurrence in frail populations, remote from specialist neurosurgeons who currently triage treatment decisions, challenges this. Education is an important component of enabling shared decisions. This should be targeted to avoid information overload. However, it is unknown what this should be. OBJECTIVES Our objectives were to conduct analysis of the content of existing CSDH educational materials, to inform the development of patient and relative educational resources to facilitate shared decision making. METHODS A literature search was conducted (July 2021) of MEDLINE, Embase and grey literature, for all self-specified resources on CSDH education, and narrative reviews. Resources were classified into a hierarchical framework using inductive thematic analysis into 8 core domains: Aetiology, epidemiology and pathophysiology; natural history and risk factors; symptoms; diagnosis; surgical management; nonsurgical management; complications and recurrence; and outcomes. Domain provision was summarised using descriptive statistics and Chi-squared tests. RESULTS 56 information resources were identified. 30 (54%) were resources designed for healthcare professionals (HCPs), and 26 (46%) were patient-orientated resources. 45 (80%) were specific to CSDH, 11 (20%) covered head injury, and 10 (18%) referenced both acute and chronic SDH. Of 8 core domains, the most reported were aetiology, epidemiology and pathophysiology (80%, n = 45) and surgical management (77%, n = 43). Patient orientated resources were more likely to provide information on symptoms (73% vs 13%, p<0.001); and diagnosis (62% vs 10%, p<0.001) when compared to HCP resources. Healthcare professional orientated resources were more likely to provide information on nonsurgical management (63% vs 35%, p = 0.032), and complications/recurrence (83% vs 42%, p = 0.001). CONCLUSION The content of educational resources is varied, even amongst those intended for the same audience. These discrepancies indicate an uncertain educational need, that will need to be resolved in order to better support effective shared decision making. The taxonomy created can inform future qualitative studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor S. Gillespie
- Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel Khanna
- University Division of Anaesthesia, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mark E. Vivian
- University Division of Anaesthesia, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel McKoy
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Alvaro Yanez Touzet
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Ellie Edlmann
- Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel J. Stubbs
- University Division of Anaesthesia, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin M. Davies
- Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Rosenberg D, Mano R, Mesch GS. Health information seeking on social media: the diversification approach. EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION: AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL 2023. [DOI: 10.1108/edi-12-2021-0309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
Abstract
PurposeInternet studies have rarely addressed gender and/or ethnic differences in health information seeking on social media. Moreover, the role of locality size in explanation of this phenomenon has been overlooked. This study proposed a diversification approach to address these issues. According to it, belonging to numerous disadvantaged groups increases the probability of health-related Internet/social media use.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected via telephone survey. The sample consisted of 798 Israeli Internet users who reported using social media for any purpose, gender, ethnic affiliation and locality of residence. The data were analysed using a logistic regression technique.FindingsArab female social media users, who resided in small localities, were more likely than the other studied social groups to seek both non-medical and medical information on social media. Furthermore, Arab female social media users were found having the highest likelihood among all studied social groups to seek information regarding physical activity and medications on social media.Practical implicationsThe findings largely supported the diversification approach and signal a major need for a greater supply of public health information for members of minority groups, especially those residing in small localities.Originality/valueThe study investigates triple social disadvantage in health-related social media use.
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28
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Memenga P, Scheper J, Link E. [Sharing information on COVID-19 vaccination: quantitative online survey on actors, content, sources, and motives]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2023; 66:423-431. [PMID: 36920540 PMCID: PMC10016161 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-023-03677-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A person's opinion about COVID-19 vaccination and their decision for or against the vaccination are determined, among other things, by the information they receive. Therefore, it seems crucial to examine the phenomenon of information sharing in the context of COVID-19 vaccination. The study explores who shares which information about vaccinations with whom, how the sharing of information is related to the seeking of information from various sources, and what the motives are. METHOD From 19 June to 13 July 2021, we conducted an online survey with 833 people using the German non-representative Social Sciences' (SoSci) panel. The questionnaire assessed information sharing with strangers and the social environment, the content, and the motives as well as the sources of information. The responses of 828 people were evaluated using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses. RESULTS Older people, women, and unvaccinated individuals were more likely to share information about COVID-19 vaccination. Information was more often shared in the social environment than with strangers. People shared information about benefits and risks of the vaccination as well as their own experiences with vaccinations. People who research websites of health authorities were more likely to share information about the benefits of vaccinations and their own experiences, while people using YouTube or messenger services were more likely to share information about risks. The motives for sharing information are to help others, social exchange, to raise awareness, to gain status, and the fear of being attacked or judged. CONCLUSION Information sharing on COVID-19 vaccination is complex in terms of content and motivation. In order to promote vaccination readiness, the range of information offered by public health departments should be expanded and the population's health literacy should be strengthened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Memenga
- Institut für Journalistik und Kommunikationsforschung, Hochschule für Musik, Theater und Medien Hannover, Expo Plaza 12, 30539, Hannover, Deutschland.
| | - Jule Scheper
- Institut für Journalistik und Kommunikationsforschung, Hochschule für Musik, Theater und Medien Hannover, Expo Plaza 12, 30539, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - Elena Link
- Institut für Journalistik und Kommunikationsforschung, Hochschule für Musik, Theater und Medien Hannover, Expo Plaza 12, 30539, Hannover, Deutschland
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Paimre M, Virkus S, Osula K. Health information behavior and related factors among Estonians aged ≥ 50 years during the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF DOCUMENTATION 2023. [DOI: 10.1108/jd-10-2022-0217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
PurposeThe purpose of the article is to introduce the outcomes of a study analyzing the relationships between willingness to use technology for health purposes, health information behavior (HIB), health behavior (HB) choices, readiness for COVID-19 vaccination, socioeconomic indicators and self-reported health among older adults aged = 50 years living in Estonia.Design/methodology/approachA cross-sectional survey was conducted among 501 people aged = 50 in Estonia in 2020, a month after the end of lockdown.FindingsThe results of the study indicate that the more recurrent the need for HI was (rho = 0.11, p < 0.05) and the more regularly one searched for it (rho = 0.14, p < 0.01), the more willing a person was to get vaccinated. Also, interest in digital applications corresponded to vaccination readiness (rho = 0.25, p < 0.001). However, this relationship did not emerge in the case of other HBs such as healthy eating and exercise. Differences in HIB should be taken into account when developing effective means of health communication designed especially for crisis situations.Originality/valueEstonia is known as one of the digital front runners in the world. However, social welfare and the well-being of disadvantaged groups among the population (e.g. older people) have not yet caught up with the more developed Western countries. Thus, learning more about the health-related information behavior of older adults, e.g. the kind of health information they are seeking and using in Estonia, allows policymakers, health information providers and libraries in Estonia to plan and carry out more effective interventions and help them to improve the existing systems so as to furnish older adults with relevant information.
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Freytag A, Baumann E, Angermeyer M, Schomerus G. Self- and surrogate-seeking of information about mental health and illness in Germany. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:65. [PMID: 36627596 PMCID: PMC9830618 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-14998-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seeking information on mental health issues - both for oneself and on behalf of others (so-called surrogate-seeking) - is a critical early step in dealing with mental illness and known to impede stigmatizing attitudes and foster help-seeking. Yet, knowledge about mental health tends to be insufficient worldwide. Therefore, it is necessary to better understand the search for mental health information and examine the factors that are positively associated with information-seeking. METHOD In a face-to-face survey in Germany (N = 1,522), we investigated the factors related to mental health information-seeking. The data was analyzed by means of a logistic regression model, in which we distinguished those searching information for themselves from so-called surrogate seekers, i.e., people who seek information on behalf of someone else. RESULTS Twenty-six percent of German adults in our sample have already searched for information on mental health, with the majority already having searched for information for others (73% of all seekers). Our findings indicate that individuals' proximity to people with mental health issues, including their own mental health treatment experience (Cramer's V = .429, p < .001), education (Cramer's V = .184, p < .001), and desire for social distance from the affected people (F [1, 1516] = 73.580, p < .001, η2 = .046), play an important role in mental health information-seeking. The patterns of sociodemographic and proximity factors hereby differ between self-seekers and surrogate-seekers. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides insights into the public's mental health information orientation. The findings may particularly guide strategies to improve mental health awareness and fill knowledge gaps in supporting informed decision-making and reducing stigma. Surrogate seekers appear to be an important and distinctive target group for mental health information provision. Depending on whether one wants to promote surrogate- or self-seeking seekers, different target groups and determinants should be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Freytag
- grid.460113.10000 0000 8775 661XDepartment of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media, Expo Plaza 12, 30539 Hannover, Germany
| | - Eva Baumann
- grid.460113.10000 0000 8775 661XDepartment of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media, Expo Plaza 12, 30539 Hannover, Germany
| | - Matthias Angermeyer
- grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Center for Public Mental Health, Untere Zeile 13, 3482 Gösing am Wagram, Austria
| | - Georg Schomerus
- grid.9647.c0000 0004 7669 9786Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Leipzig, Semmelweisstraße 10, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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Fair H, Doherty K, Eccleston C, Edmonds M, Klekociuk S, Farrow M. The Drivers of Conversations About Dementia Risk Reduction: A Qualitative Study. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 28:64-72. [PMID: 36825335 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2023.2179136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Dementia prevention is an area of health where public knowledge remains limited. A growing number of education initiatives are attempting to rectify this, but they tend to reach audiences of limited size and diversity, limiting intervention-associated health equity. However, initiative participants tend to discuss these initiatives and the information they contain with members of their social network, increasing the number and diversity of people receiving dementia risk reduction information. In this qualitative study, we sought to understand the drivers of this information sharing. We interviewed 39 people from Tasmania, Australia who completed the Preventing Dementia Massive Open Online Course in May 2020. We identified themes from responses to semi-structured interview questions using reflexive thematic analysis. We identified three key drivers of information sharing: participants' personal course experiences; participants finding information sharing opportunities with people they expected to be receptive; and conversation partners' responses to conversation topics. These drivers aligned with existing communication theories, with dementia-related stigma effecting both actual and perceived conversation partner receptivity. Understanding the drivers of information sharing may allow information about dementia risk reduction, and other preventative health behaviors, to be presented in ways that facilitate information diffusion, increasing equity in preventative health education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Fair
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Kathleen Doherty
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Claire Eccleston
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Marni Edmonds
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Shannon Klekociuk
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Maree Farrow
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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Zhu YP, Zhu Y, Fan LZ. Research on hotspots and evolution paths in the field of health information behavior: a comparison study of bibliometrics based on CNKI and WoS data. LIBRARY HI TECH 2022. [DOI: 10.1108/lht-08-2022-0399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PurposeThis study aimed to examine the research hotspots and evolution paths in the field of health information behavior (HIB) in China and abroad, and conduct comparative analysis to better understand its development trajectory globally.Design/methodology/approachA keyword search of the relevant literature included in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database and Web of Science (WoS) core collection database was conducted, using the visualized analysis tool CiteSpace V for bibliometric analyses.FindingsThe common research hotspots in China and abroad can be divided into related research on HIB, research on its influencing factors and health information research. Among these, health information-seeking behavior has been the focus of domestic and foreign scholars. From the subdivision perspective, the focus of Chinese and foreign research hotspots differs. In terms of evolutionary path, the initial stage of HIB research in China and abroad revolves around health information and health information-seeking behavior, followed by the influencing factors of HIB; however, the research breakthrough point is the reverse. Then, domestic and foreign research was conducted on different types of HIBs. Regarding the selection of research objects, Chinese and foreign research objects were increasingly diversified.Research limitations/implicationsThis study also has several limitations. First, the literature sample only selected the literature in the WoS and CNKI databases, and there may be many HIB-related works published in other databases. Therefore, future research should include other databases. Second, in terms of language, this study selected only Chinese and English literature, but in many countries, important research results on certain topics are usually published in native language, and future research should expand the language selection. Third, this study only conducted national and institutional collaboration network analysis, keyword co-occurrence analysis, cluster analysis and timeline chart analysis.Practical implicationsThe implication of practice can be divided into the following three points. (1) Analyzing the domestic and foreign literature on HIB and identifying highly cooperative institutions and countries in the field of HIB can reveal the research situation of HIB and help researchers establish new research networks in the future. (2) Analyzing the research hotspots and evolutionary paths of HIB at home and abroad is helpful for quickly understanding the development context of this field and grasping the emerging research directions such as HIB of people in close contact with patients, health information exchange behavior, health information avoidance behavior and health information discontinuation behavior, which can help researchers to explore the future research direction in this field, so as to determine the topic and fill the research gap. (3) Combining the analysis of HIB-related research at home and abroad is helpful for professionals to understand the characteristics and rules of HIB of users, consumers and other groups to further optimize and improve health information services.Originality/valueComparing and summarizing the research status of HIB in China and globally, and presenting the findings visually, will help researchers better grasp the research overview and hotspot changes in this field, as well as provide a follow-up reference.
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De La Chapa JS, Bellinger JR, Timm AR, Daniero JJ. "Quality, Readability, and Understandability of Online Posterior Glottic Stenosis Information". J Voice 2022:S0892-1997(22)00388-5. [PMID: 36585308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2022.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the quality, readability, and understandability of posterior glottic stenosis (PGS) information available to patients online. METHODS The top 50 Google search results for "posterior glottic stenosis" were categorized based on website affiliation and target audience (patient or provider). Readability was assessed using the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL) and the Flesch Reading Ease (FRE) scores. The DISCERN tool was used to assess quality and the Patient Education Assessment Tool for Printed Materials (PEMAT-P) was used to assess understandability and actionability. Simple descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. RESULTS 36 of the top 50 results were eligible for scoring. 17% (6 of 36) were classified as patient-focused while 83% (30 of 36) were provider-focused. Patient-focused materials had a higher mean FRE score (36.9) than provider-focused materials (15.5) (P < 0.001). Patient-focused materials had an average reading level of 12.5 compared to 15.8 for provider-focused materials (P < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between overall PEMAT-P and DISCERN (r = 0.63, P < 0.001), PEMAT-P understandability and DISCERN (r = 0.63, P < 0.001) and FRES and FKGL (r = -0.67, P < 0.001). From this, we can infer that higher quality sites are easier to understand but not necessarily tailored to a certain reading level. CONCLUSIONS Shared decision making in PGS management is crucial as patients must be aware of how treatment modalities affect airway, voice, and swallowing. However, this study shows that patient targeted PGS information is limited, and the readability, quality, and understandability is generally low. We suggest the development of web pages with PGS information tailored for patient education and search optimization to make this information appear earlier in Google search results. Furthermore, future studies should seek to characterize the link between online health information and socioeconomic-based health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian S De La Chapa
- University of Virginia Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Charlottesville, Virginia.
| | - Jeffrey R Bellinger
- University of Virginia Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Allyson R Timm
- University of Virginia Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - James J Daniero
- University of Virginia Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Charlottesville, Virginia
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Zhang K, Zhang N, Wang J, Jiang J, Xu S. Exploring the roles of fear and powerlessness in the relationship between perceived risk of the COVID-19 pandemic and information-avoidance behavior. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1005142. [PMID: 36457926 PMCID: PMC9706103 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1005142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 has seriously impacted various aspects of the society on a global scale. However, it is still unclear how perceived risk influences epidemic information-avoidance behavior which generally helps us understand public information avoidance. This study aimed to assess the relationship between the perceived epidemic risk and information-avoidance behavior and the mediating role of fear and powerlessness during the COVID-19 pandemic in China. A total of 557 Chinese respondents with COVID-19 treated in modular hospitals ranging from 16 to 72 years old were recruited and completed questionnaires in the face-to-face manner containing scales of the perceived epidemic risk of COVID-19, fear, powerlessness, and information-avoidance behavior. To test the conceptual model, we adopted structural equation modeling (SEM) with the perceived risk of the COVID-19 pandemic as a predictor, fear and powerlessness as mediating variables, and information-avoidance behavior as the outcome. The results indicated a significant and positive association between the perceived epidemic risk of COVID-19 and information-avoidance behavior. Powerlessness acted as the mediator between the perceived epidemic risk of COVID-19 and information-avoidance behavior. The perceived epidemic risk of COVID-19 influenced information-avoidance behavior through fear and powerlessness in turn. Findings from this study implied that public health managers should consider the mediating roles of negative emotions such as fear and powerlessness for coping with behaviors in public health emergencies, especially the information avoidance behaviors related to risk perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunying Zhang
- School of Education, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
- School of Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Naifu Zhang
- College of International Business, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Jiang
- College of International Business, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sihua Xu
- College of International Business, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China
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Raza M, Khalid R, Wisetsri W, Cavaliere LPL, Alnawafleh HSM, Guzman-Avalos M. The technological intervention in e-health management: evidence from Thailand. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HUMAN RIGHTS IN HEALTHCARE 2022. [DOI: 10.1108/ijhrh-02-2022-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
The e-health services came up as an effective tool to mitigate effects of COVID-19 and following social distance norms. This study highlighted an issue of contentious usage intentions of e-health services among Thai older citizens. This study aims to examine the relationship of social influence (SI), information quality (IQ) and the digital literacy (DL) to contentious usage intentions.
Design/methodology/approach
This study follows quantitative techniques, and the sample size is 140 to analyze, that is collected from the older Thai citizens. The convenient sampling technique was used to collect the data and the items were measured by using a five-point Likert scale.
Findings
The findings of this study are having mixed results. The effect of DL and satisfaction (SAT) on continuous usage intention (CUI) is significant. The effect of IQ and SI on CUI is non-significant. The effect of IQ and SI on SAT is significant. Further, the mediating effect of SAT between IQ and CUI is non-significant. However, the mediating effect of SAT between SI and CUI is significant.
Originality/value
This study contributes to knowledge by empirical testing of DL and usage of the medicine. Furthermore, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the rare studies that incorporate technological intervention for drug usage intentions.
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Atherton K, Forshaw MJ, Kidd TM. Readability of online health information pertaining to migraine and headache in the UK. Br J Pain 2022; 17:117-125. [PMID: 37057254 PMCID: PMC10088424 DOI: 10.1177/20494637221134461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An estimated 46% of the worldwide adult population live with an active headache disorder, and it is thought that there is a proportion of headache and migraine sufferers who do not attend for medical care, instead choosing to manage their symptoms at home. The internet continues to act as a source of online health information for self-management, however, it is important that this information can be understood by the user. Research indicates that most health information online is written at a level too difficult for much of the UK population to understand. The aim of this study was to investigate the readability of online health information pertaining to headache and migraine for a UK-based internet user accessing the top four search engines. Searches for ‘headache’ and ‘migraine’ were performed on each search engine and results from the first page were selected for analysis. Five validated readability tests were used to analyse readability; Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, Flesch Reading Ease, Gunning Fog Index, Coleman-Liau Index and Simple Measure of Gobbledygook Index. We found that the majority of online health information about migraine and headache is too difficult for the UK adult population to read. Findings highlight work is required to ensure that information from a wider variety of sources is easier to comprehend for much of the population in order for individuals to make informed decisions about health seeking and self-management of headache and migraine. Health information providers should weave readability analysis into their content design process, incorporating shorter sentences and simpler words in their description of conditions and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Atherton
- School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, UK
| | | | - Tara M. Kidd
- School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, UK
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Korshakova E, Marsh JK, Kleinberg S. Health Information Sourcing and Health Knowledge Quality: Repeated Cross-sectional Survey. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e39274. [PMID: 35998198 PMCID: PMC9557754 DOI: 10.2196/39274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People’s health-related knowledge influences health outcomes, as this knowledge may influence whether individuals follow advice from their doctors or public health agencies. Yet, little attention has been paid to where people obtain health information and how these information sources relate to the quality of knowledge. Objective We aim to discover what information sources people use to learn about health conditions, how these sources relate to the quality of their health knowledge, and how both the number of information sources and health knowledge change over time. Methods We surveyed 200 different individuals at 12 time points from March through September 2020. At each time point, we elicited participants’ knowledge about causes, risk factors, and preventative interventions for 8 viral (Ebola, common cold, COVID-19, Zika) and nonviral (food allergies, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [ALS], strep throat, stroke) illnesses. Participants were further asked how they learned about each illness and to rate how much they trust various sources of health information. Results We found that participants used different information sources to obtain health information about common illnesses (food allergies, strep throat, stroke) compared to emerging illnesses (Ebola, common cold, COVID-19, Zika). Participants relied mainly on news media, government agencies, and social media for information about emerging illnesses, while learning about common illnesses from family, friends, and medical professionals. Participants relied on social media for information about COVID-19, with their knowledge accuracy of COVID-19 declining over the course of the pandemic. The number of information sources participants used was positively correlated with health knowledge quality, though there was no relationship with the specific source types consulted. Conclusions Building on prior work on health information seeking and factors affecting health knowledge, we now find that people systematically consult different types of information sources by illness type and that the number of information sources people use affects the quality of individuals’ health knowledge. Interventions to disseminate health information may need to be targeted to where individuals are likely to seek out information, and these information sources differ systematically by illness type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Korshakova
- Department of Computer Science, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ, United States
| | - Jessecae K Marsh
- Department of Psychology, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, United States
| | - Samantha Kleinberg
- Department of Computer Science, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ, United States
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Chiu YL, Tsai CC, Liang JC. Laypeople's Online Health Information Search Strategies and Use for Health-Related Problems: Cross-sectional Survey. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e29609. [PMID: 36053561 PMCID: PMC9482072 DOI: 10.2196/29609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With the increase in the use of the internet to search for health information about health-related problems, there is a need for health care professionals to better understand how their patients search for and use the online health information that may influence their medical decision making. Objective The aims of this study are to explore laypeople’s online health information search strategies and examine the relationships between their search strategies and utilization behavior of online health information. Methods Two scales, namely match and elaboration, were used to measure patients’ basic search strategies (ie, simple approach) and advanced search strategies (ie, integrative approach), respectively. In addition, the consultation scale was used to evaluate the participants’ use of online health information to consult doctors and others. A total of 253 outpatients without university education were purposely selected and surveyed. The participants were outpatients at a university-affiliated teaching hospital. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was performed to analyze the measurement model to specify the measurement validation. In addition, the structure model of PLS-SEM was evaluated to examine the path correlations between variables and to execute interaction effect and curvilinear relationship analyses. Results The results of the path correlation analysis by PLS-SEM showed that both elaboration strategy (path coefficient=0.55, P<.001) and match strategy (path coefficient=0.36, P<.001) were positively correlated with consultation on online health information with doctors and others. In addition, interaction effect and curvilinear relationship analyses indicated that there was a significant interaction effect between elaboration and match on consultation (path coefficient=–0.34, P<.001) and a significant curvilinear relationship between match and consultation (path coefficient=–0.09, P=.046). Conclusions Increasing patients’ exposure to online health information through both a simple search approach (ie, match strategy) and a complex search approach (ie, elaboration strategy) may lead them to appropriately use the information to consult doctors and others. However, the results of interaction effect and curvilinear relationship analyses highlighted the essential role of the elaboration strategy to properly locate, evaluate, and apply online health information. The findings of this study may help health care professionals better understand how to communicate with their patients through the health information on the internet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Lin Chiu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Bioethics, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Chung Tsai
- Program of Learning Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute for Research Excellence in Learning Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jyh-Chong Liang
- Program of Learning Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute for Research Excellence in Learning Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Ilic A, Roser K, Sommer G, Baenziger J, Mitter VR, Mader L, Dyntar D, Michel G. COVID-19 Information-Seeking, Health Literacy, and Worry and Anxiety During the Early Stage of the Pandemic in Switzerland: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Public Health 2022; 67:1604717. [PMID: 36016963 PMCID: PMC9395600 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2022.1604717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To describe COVID-19 information-seeking behavior (CISB) during the first stage of the pandemic in Switzerland and identify its determinants. Methods: We conducted an online cross-sectional survey (4 May to 6 July 2020). Participants self-reported their CISB (information sources and frequency), personal COVID-19 situation (e.g., perception about having had COVID-19), sociodemographic information, and completed validated measures of health literacy, and worry and anxiety. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regressions. Results: We included 1,505 participants (24.7% male; mean age = 43.0 years, SD = 13.9). Most participants reported searching for information daily (n = 1,023, 68.0%) and referring to multiple information sources (mean 3.7, SD = 1.5). Commonly used sources were official websites (n = 1,129, 75.0%) and newspapers (n = 997, 66.2%). Participants with higher health literacy were more likely to seek information daily and use online resources, but less likely to use personal networks than those with lower health literacy. We did not find any association between CISB and worry and anxiety. Conclusion: More opportunities for personal dialogue and education about reliable online information resources should be encouraged to optimize the CISB of groups with lower health literacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anica Ilic
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Katharina Roser
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Grit Sommer
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Julia Baenziger
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Center for Heart Disease and Mental Health, Heart Institute and Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and the Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Heart Centre for Children, Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Vera Ruth Mitter
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), Oslo, Norway
- Department of Gynaecology, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Luzius Mader
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Dyntar
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Gisela Michel
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Gisela Michel,
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Link E, Baumann E, Kreps GL, Czerwinski F, Rosset M, Suhr R. Expanding the Health Information National Trends Survey Research Program Internationally to Examine Global Health Communication Trends: Comparing Health Information Seeking Behaviors in the U.S. and Germany. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022; 27:545-554. [PMID: 36250315 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2022.2134522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) is a well-established U.S.-based research program administered by the National Cancer Institute to track the public access to and use of health information. This paper introduces a German research initiative, part of the International Studies to Investigate Global Health Information Trends (INSIGHTS) research consortium. This adaptation of the HINTS is important for initiating analyses of global health communication practices and comparing health information seeking behaviors (HISB) across nations to pinpoint potentials and challenges of health information provision and contribute to a deeper understanding of socio-contextual determinants of HISB. First cross-country comparisons revealed that the share of residents seeking for health information is high in the U.S. (80%) and Germany (74%), but different primary sources are used. Whereas a clear majority of U.S. residents chose the Internet to gather health information (74.9%), Germans most often turn to health professionals (48.0%). Socio-structural and health(care)-related predictors were found to contribute to the explanation of HISB in both countries, whereas information-related predictors were only relevant in Germany. The results indicate the need to engage in patient-provider communication to initiate HISB and to improve the access to information for residents with lower socio-economic backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Link
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama, and Media, Hannover, Germany
| | - Eva Baumann
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama, and Media, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gary L Kreps
- Center for Health and Risk Communication, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, USA
| | - Fabian Czerwinski
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama, and Media, Hannover, Germany
| | - Magdalena Rosset
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama, and Media, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralf Suhr
- Stiftung Gesundheitswissen, Berlin, Germany
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Noble JM, Zamani A, Gharaat M, Merrick D, Maeda N, Lambe Foster A, Nikolaidis I, Goud R, Stroulia E, Agyapong VIO, Greenshaw AJ, Lambert S, Gallson D, Porter K, Turner D, Zaiane O. Developing, Implementing, and Evaluating an Artificial Intelligence-Guided Mental Health Resource Navigation Chatbot for Health Care Workers and Their Families During and Following the COVID-19 Pandemic: Protocol for a Cross-sectional Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e33717. [PMID: 35877158 PMCID: PMC9361145 DOI: 10.2196/33717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Approximately 1 in 3 Canadians will experience an addiction or mental health challenge at some point in their lifetime. Unfortunately, there are multiple barriers to accessing mental health care, including system fragmentation, episodic care, long wait times, and insufficient support for health system navigation. In addition, stigma may further reduce an individual’s likelihood of seeking support. Digital technologies present new and exciting opportunities to bridge significant gaps in mental health care service provision, reduce barriers pertaining to stigma, and improve health outcomes for patients and mental health system integration and efficiency. Chatbots (ie, software systems that use artificial intelligence to carry out conversations with people) may be explored to support those in need of information or access to services and present the opportunity to address gaps in traditional, fragmented, or episodic mental health system structures on demand with personalized attention. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated even further the need for mental health support among Canadians and called attention to the inefficiencies of our system. As health care workers and their families are at an even greater risk of mental illness and psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic, this technology will be first piloted with the goal of supporting this vulnerable group. Objective This pilot study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of the Mental Health Intelligent Information Resource Assistant in supporting health care workers and their families in the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Nova Scotia with the provision of appropriate information on mental health issues, services, and programs based on personalized needs. Methods The effectiveness of the technology will be assessed via voluntary follow-up surveys and an analysis of client interactions and engagement with the chatbot. Client satisfaction with the chatbot will also be assessed. Results This project was initiated on April 1, 2021. Ethics approval was granted on August 12, 2021, by the University of Alberta Health Research Board (PRO00109148) and on April 21, 2022, by the Nova Scotia Health Authority Research Ethics Board (1027474). Data collection is anticipated to take place from May 2, 2022, to May 2, 2023. Publication of preliminary results will be sought in spring or summer 2022, with a more comprehensive evaluation completed by spring 2023 following the collection of a larger data set. Conclusions Our findings can be incorporated into public policy and planning around mental health system navigation by Canadian mental health care providers—from large public health authorities to small community-based, not-for-profit organizations. This may serve to support the development of an additional touch point, or point of entry, for individuals to access the appropriate services or care when they need them, wherever they are. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/33717
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine M Noble
- Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Ali Zamani
- Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - MohamadAli Gharaat
- Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Dylan Merrick
- Department of Indigenous Studies, University of Saskatchewan, Regina, SK, Canada
| | - Nathanial Maeda
- Rehabilitation Robotics Lab, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | | | - Rachel Goud
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eleni Stroulia
- Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Vincent I O Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Andrew J Greenshaw
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Digital Hub for Mental Health, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Simon Lambert
- Department of Indigenous Studies, University of Saskatchewan, Regina, SK, Canada.,Network Environments for Indigenous Health Research National Coordinating Centre, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Dave Gallson
- Mood Disorders Society of Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ken Porter
- Mood Disorders Society of Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Debbie Turner
- Mood Disorders Society of Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Osmar Zaiane
- Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Eke R, Jannat KT, Yang XT, Parton JM. Disparity and Factors Associated With Internet Health Information Seeking Among US Adults Living With Diabetes Mellitus: Cross-sectional Study. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e32723. [PMID: 35635741 PMCID: PMC9153918 DOI: 10.2196/32723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Many patients with chronic medical conditions search the internet to obtain medical advice and health information to improve their health condition and quality of life. Diabetes is a common chronic disease that disproportionately affects different race and ethnicity groups in the United States. In the existing literature on the popularity of internet health information seeking among persons with a chronic medical condition, there are limited data on US adults living with diabetes.
Objective
This study aims to examine the factors associated with internet health information seeking among US adults living with diabetes and whether there is a disparity in internet health information seeking stratified by race and ethnicity.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study using the Health Information National Trends Survey data from 2017 to 2020. We selected our study sample based on respondents’ reports on whether they were told they had diabetes, and our primary outcome was internet health information–seeking behavior. We used 2 multivariable logistic regression models to examine the effects of sociodemographic factors and other covariates on the internet health information–seeking behavior of adults with diabetes. Jackknife replicate weights were used to provide bias-corrected variance estimates.
Results
Our study sample included 2903 adults who self-reported that they had diabetes. In total, 60.08% (1744/2903) were non-Hispanic White individuals, 46.88% (1336/2850) were men, and 64% (1812/2831) had some college or graduate education. The prevalence of internet health information seeking in this population was 64.49% (1872/2903), and the main factors associated with internet health information seeking included education level (some college vs less than high school: odds ratio [OR] 1.42, 95% CI 1.44-1.88; and college graduate or higher vs less than high school: OR 2.50, 95% CI 1.79-3.50), age (age group ≥65 years vs age group 18-44 years: OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.34-0.63), and household income level (P<.001). In addition, we found significant differences in the effects of predictors stratified by race.
Conclusions
The findings from this study suggest that internet health information seeking is common among US adults living with diabetes. Internet health information could influence the relationship between health care providers and adults living with diabetes and improve their self-management and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ransome Eke
- Department of Community Medicine, Mercer University School of Medicine, Columbus, GA, United States
| | - Khadiza Tul Jannat
- College of Communication and Information Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, United States
| | - Xin Thomas Yang
- Institute of Data and Analytics, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, United States
| | - Jason M Parton
- Institute of Data and Analytics, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, United States
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Van Heel KL, Nelson A, Handysides D, Shah H. Factors Associated with Confidence in Using the Internet to Access Health Information: A Cross-Sectional Data Analysis (Preprint). JMIR Form Res 2022; 7:e39891. [PMID: 37040161 PMCID: PMC10131683 DOI: 10.2196/39891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Confidence in health information access is a measure of the perceived ability to obtain health information. One's beliefs or perceived ability to access health information is particularly important in understanding trends in health care access. Previous literature has found that access to health information is lowest among society's most vulnerable population groups. These groups include older, less educated, and low-income populations. While health confidence has previously been used as a scale to measure health outcomes, additional research is needed describing the demographic factors associated with users' confidence in health information access. This may be a key component of health information seeking that affects beneficial health outcomes such as prevention and treatment. OBJECTIVE This study examines the demographic factors associated with the levels of confidence in using the internet to access health information for adults 18 years and older in the United States. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, secondary data from the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) 5, Cycle 3 (2019) were analyzed (N=5374). An ordinal regression stratified by internet use was used to determine the association between demographic characteristics and level of confidence in health information access. RESULTS When the internet is the primary source for health information, high school graduates (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.58, 95% CI 0.37-0.89) compared to those with a college degree or more had significantly lower odds of being confident in obtaining health information. In addition, non-Hispanic Asian participants (AOR 0.44, 95% CI 0.24-0.82) compared to non-Hispanic White participants, male participants (AOR 0.72, 95% CI 0.54-0.97) compared to female participants, and those who made between US $20,000-$35,000 annually (AOR 0.55, 95% CI 0.31-0.98) compared to those who made US $75,000 or more annually had significantly lower odds of being confident in obtaining health information via the internet. Moreover, when the internet is the primary source for health information, those with health insurance had significantly higher odds of being confident in obtaining health information (AOR 2.91, 95% CI 1.58-5.34) compared to those who do not have health insurance. Lastly, a significant association was observed between confidence in health information access and primary health information source and frequency of visiting a health care provider. CONCLUSIONS Confidence in accessing health information can differ by individual demographics. Accessing health-related information from the internet has become increasingly more common and can provide insight into health information-seeking behaviors. Further exploration of these factors can inform the science of health education by providing deeper insight into improving access to health information for vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasi Lou Van Heel
- Dr Kiran C Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States
| | - Anna Nelson
- Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | | | - Huma Shah
- Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
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Farrow M, Fair H, Klekociuk SZ, Vickers JC. Educating the masses to address a global public health priority: The Preventing Dementia Massive Open Online Course (MOOC). PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267205. [PMID: 35507576 PMCID: PMC9067672 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Dementia is a global public health priority and risk reduction is an important pillar of the public health response. While 40% of cases are estimated to be attributable to modifiable health and lifestyle risk factors, public awareness of the evidence is low, limiting peoples’ opportunity to adopt risk-reducing behaviours. To address this gap, we designed, implemented, and evaluated an educational intervention, the Preventing Dementia Massive Open Online Course (PDMOOC). This mixed-methods study examined the reach and impact of the free and globally available PDMOOC, to assess its potential to provide effective dementia risk reduction education to a broad international audience. Over 100,000 individuals participated in the PDMOOC across seven iterations from 2016 to 2020, with 55,739 of these consenting to participate in research. Their mean age was 49 years (SD = 15), they came from 167 different countries, and the majority were female (86%), had completed post-secondary education (77%), lived in high-income countries (93%) and worked in health care and social assistance (63%). This demographic profile changed across time, with more men, people with higher education and people from low- and middle-income countries participating in recent course iterations. Two-thirds of participants completed the PDMOOC; completion was associated with being aged 50 to 70 years, residing in a high-income country, having tertiary education, and working in the health sector. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the PDMOOC, improved dementia risk reduction understanding and self-efficacy, increased motivation to maintain healthy lifestyles, and, importantly, application of their learning to health behaviour change with the potential to reduce their dementia risk. The PDMOOC educated a large global audience about dementia risk reduction, which contributed to participants making risk-reducing behaviour changes. This suggests MOOCs can be a successful public health strategy to improve dementia risk reduction understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maree Farrow
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Hannah Fair
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Shannon Z. Klekociuk
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - James C. Vickers
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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Link E, Baumann E, Czerwinski F, Rosset M, Suhr R. Of seekers and nonseekers: Characteristics of Covid‐19‐related information‐seeking behaviors. WORLD MEDICAL & HEALTH POLICY 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/wmh3.509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Link
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research Hanover University of Music, Drama, and Media Hannover Germany
| | - Eva Baumann
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research Hanover University of Music, Drama, and Media Hannover Germany
| | - Fabian Czerwinski
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research Hanover University of Music, Drama, and Media Hannover Germany
| | - Magdalena Rosset
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research Hanover University of Music, Drama, and Media Hannover Germany
| | - Ralf Suhr
- Stiftung Gesundheitswissen Berlin Germany
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Ausserhofer D, Wiedermann W, Becker U, Vögele A, Piccoliori G, Wiedermann CJ, Engl A. Health information-seeking behavior associated with linguistic group membership: latent class analysis of a population-based cross-sectional survey in Italy, August to September 2014. Arch Public Health 2022; 80:87. [PMID: 35313984 PMCID: PMC8935258 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-022-00847-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests an increasing demand for culturally and linguistically responsive disease prevention programs and health interventions. It is important to understand how individuals seek health information to address the potential needs of the health care system. METHODS Latent classes of health information-seeking behaviors in a linguistically mixed region of Italy were explored through a population-based telephone survey of ten health information sources. Data were collected in August and September 2014 from 504 adults in South Tyrol, Italy (primary language German, 68%; Italian, 28%), and analyzed using latent class analysis and latent class multinomial logistic regression models. RESULTS Three classes of health information-seeking behaviors emerged: "multidimensional" (23.3%), "interpersonal" (38.6%) and "technical/online" (38.1%). Compared to the "technical/online" class, "interpersonal" class members were older, had lower education than high school, and were less likely to be of Italian ethnicity. "Multidimensional" class members were more likely to be female, older, and of German ethnicity than those in the "technical/online" class. CONCLUSIONS Linguistic ethnicity explains membership in classes on health information-seeking behavior. Policymakers and healthcare providers should consider the health information-seeking behaviors of population subgroups to promote health and medical care in linguistic minority groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dietmar Ausserhofer
- Institute of General Practice, College of Healthcare Professions Claudiana, Lorenz-Böhler-Street 13, 39100, Bolzano, Italy
- Institute of Nursing Science, Department Public Health, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Wiedermann
- Department of Educational, School and Counseling Psychology, College of Education and Human Development, Missouri Prevention Science Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Ulrich Becker
- Apollis Institute of Social Research and Opinion Polling, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Anna Vögele
- Institute of General Practice, College of Healthcare Professions Claudiana, Lorenz-Böhler-Street 13, 39100, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Giuliano Piccoliori
- Institute of General Practice, College of Healthcare Professions Claudiana, Lorenz-Böhler-Street 13, 39100, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Christian J Wiedermann
- Institute of General Practice, College of Healthcare Professions Claudiana, Lorenz-Böhler-Street 13, 39100, Bolzano, Italy.
| | - Adolf Engl
- Institute of General Practice, College of Healthcare Professions Claudiana, Lorenz-Böhler-Street 13, 39100, Bolzano, Italy
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Merati-Fashi F, Dalvandi A, Yekta ZP. Health Information Seeking and Its Achievements in Patients With Chronic Disease. J Nurse Pract 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nurpra.2021.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Relation of corona-specific health literacy to use of and trust in information sources during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:42. [PMID: 34991525 PMCID: PMC8735736 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12271-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 has developed into a worldwide pandemic which was accompanied by an «infodemic» consisting of much false and misleading information. To cope with these new challenges, health literacy plays an essential role. The aim of this paper is to present the findings of a trend study in Switzerland on corona-specific health literacy, the use of and trust in information sources during the COVID-19 pandemic, and their relationships. Methods Three online surveys each with approximately 1′020 individuals living in the German-speaking part of Switzerland (age ≥ 18 years) were conducted at different timepoints during the COVID-19 pandemic, namely spring, fall and winter 2020. For the assessment of corona-specific health literacy, a specifically developed instrument (HLS-COVID-Q22) was used. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate data analyses have been conducted. Results In general, a majority of the Swiss-German population reported sufficient corona-specific health literacy levels which increased during the pandemic: 54.6% participants in spring, 62.4% in fall and 63.3% in winter 2020 had sufficient corona-specific health literacy. Greatest difficulties concerned the appraisal of health information on the coronavirus. The most used information sources were television (used by 73.3% in spring, 70% in fall and 72.3% in winter) and the internet (used by 64.1, 64.8 and 66.5%). Although health professionals, health authorities and the info-hotline were rarely mentioned as sources for information on the coronavirus, respondents had greatest trust in them. On the other hand, social media were considered as the least trustworthy information sources. Respondents generally reporting more trust in the various information sources, tended to have higher corona-specific health literacy levels. Conclusions Sufficient health literacy is an essential prerequisite for finding, understanding, appraising, and applying health recommendations, particularly in a situation where there is a rapid spread of a huge amount of information. The population should be supported in their capability in appraising the received information and in assessing the trustworthiness of different information sources.
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So J, Ahn J, Guan M. Beyond Depth and Breadth: Taking "Types" of Health Information Sought into Consideration with Cluster Analysis. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022; 27:27-36. [PMID: 35081009 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2022.2029978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Online health information-seeking behavior (OHIS) has been typically operationalized in an aggregate form representing either depth (e.g., how long) or breadth (e.g., how much) of seeking, which is irrespective of what types of information are sought. Recognizing limitations of such practice, this research employs cluster analysis to reflect the content and types of health information sought in studying OHIS. Three online studies providing participants with opportunities to actually seek information about meningitis (Study 1; N = 408), Alzheimer's disease (Study 2; N = 190), and cancer (Study 3; N = 208) recorded the participants' information-seeking activities unobtrusively. Across the three studies, cluster analysis identified three common clusters representing distinctive information-seeking patterns (i.e., combinations of different types of information sought): One cluster sought information on "overview," the second one focused on "protection" information, and the third cluster sought "all" types of information provided. The relative preference for these types of information was predicted by several antecedents of information-seeking behavior proposed in Comprehensive Model of Information Seeking (CMIS) including age, fear, self- and response-efficacy. The findings demonstrate the utility of taking the actual content or types of health information sought into consideration and suggest several fruitful avenues it paves for future research on OHIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon So
- Department of Communication, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongyoun Ahn
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Mengfei Guan
- Department of Communication, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA
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Hughes RB, Beers L, Robinson-Whelen S. Health Information Seeking by Women with Physical Disabilities: A Qualitative Analysis. Disabil Health J 2022; 15:101268. [PMID: 35123921 PMCID: PMC8983536 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2022.101268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health information seeking is critical to medical decision-making and optimal health. Although researchers have begun to explore how people with disabilities search for health information, no studies have investigated health information seeking by women with physical disabilities. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine the health information seeking experiences of women with physical disabilities. METHOD We conducted a series of semi-structured, online focus group meetings with 21 women with disabilities. Sessions were recorded and transcribed, and data were analyzed using conventional content analysis. RESULTS Two broad themes emerged: 1) pathways to information on general health; sexual and reproductive health; as well as bowel, bladder, and other pelvic health issues; and 2) perceived facilitators and barriers to obtaining health information. Information pathways differed by the type of information sought. Internet was a commonly used resource, with a high value placed on social media interaction among peers. Self-advocacy emerged as a prominent facilitator of health information seeking. Barriers identified were lack of disability-related education, limited accessibility, and providers' negative attitudes. CONCLUSION This is the first known in-depth qualitative exploration of health information seeking by women with disabilities. Study findings revealed pathways to information commonly used by women with disabilities. The study also identified notable gaps and challenges to health information seeking including the need for improved provider education and training. Findings highlight the importance of the availability and accessibility of high quality, health-related information essential for the health and well-being of women with disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary B Hughes
- University of Montana, Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities, Missoula, MT 59812, USA.
| | - Leanne Beers
- University of Montana, Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | - Susan Robinson-Whelen
- Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Center for Research on Women with Disabilities, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; TIRR Memorial Hermann, Spinal Cord Injury and Disability Research Center, 1333 Moursund St., Houston, TX 77030, USA
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