Adolescent Health Literacy: The Importance of Credible Sources for Online Health Information
ARTICLE
Suad F. Ghaddar, Melissa A. Valerio, Carolyn M. Garcia, Lucy Hansen
Journal of School Health Volume 82, Number 1, ISSN 0022-4391
Abstract
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 less than 0.001) 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. (Contains 4 tables.)
Citation
Ghaddar, S.F., Valerio, M.A., Garcia, C.M. & Hansen, L. (2012). Adolescent Health Literacy: The Importance of Credible Sources for Online Health Information. Journal of School Health, 82(1), 28-36. Retrieved March 28, 2024 from https://www.learntechlib.org/p/131437/.
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Keywords
- Access to Information
- Adolescent Attitudes
- adolescents
- Age Differences
- Electronic Libraries
- Familiarity
- gender differences
- Health
- Health Behavior
- Health Materials
- High School Students
- Hispanic Americans
- information literacy
- Information Seeking
- information sources
- internet
- Knowledge Level
- Nutrition
- Online Surveys
- Self Efficacy