Adolescent Health Literacy: The Importance of Credible Sources for Online Health Information

作者：Ghaddar Suad F^*; Valerio Melissa A; Garcia Carolyn M; Hansen Lucy

来源：Journal of School Health, 2012, 82(1): 28-36.

DOI：10.1111/j.1746-1561.2011.00664.x

• health literacy
• MedlinePlus (R)
• health informatics
• health communication
• child and adolescent health

BACKGROUND: Little research has examined adolescent health literacy and its relationship with online health information sources. The purpose of this study is to explore health literacy among a predominantly Hispanic adolescent population and to investigate whether exposure to a credible source of online health information, MedlinePlus(R), is associated with higher levels of health literacy.
METHODS: An online survey was administered to a cross-sectional random sample of high school students in South Texas. Self-reported sociodemographic characteristics and data on health-information-seeking behavior and exposure to MedlinePlus(R) were collected. Health literacy was assessed by eHEALS and the Newest Vital Sign (NVS). Linear and binary logistic regressions were completed.
RESULTS: Of the 261 students who completed the survey, 56% had heard of MedlinePlus(R), 52% had adequate levels of health literacy as measured by NVS, and the mean eHEALS score was 30.6 (possible range 8-40). Health literacy was positively associated with self-efficacy and seeking health information online. Exposure to MedlinePlus(R) was associated with higher eHealth literacy scores (p < .001) and increased the likelihood of having adequate health literacy (odds ratio: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1, 4.1).
CONCLUSION: Exposure to a credible source of online health information is associated with higher levels of health literacy. The incorporation of a credible online health information resource into school health education curricula is a promising approach for promoting health literacy.

• 出版日期2012-1