ERIC Number: EJ1013417
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012-Jan
Pages: 9
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0022-4391
EISSN: N/A
Adolescent Health Literacy: The Importance of Credible Sources for Online Health Information
Ghaddar, Suad F.; Valerio, Melissa A.; Garcia, Carolyn M.; Hansen, Lucy
Journal of School Health, v82 n1 p28-36 Jan 2012
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.)
Descriptors: Health Materials, Information Sources, Electronic Libraries, Hispanic Americans, Knowledge Level, Familiarity, Online Surveys, High School Students, Information Seeking, Health Behavior, Adolescent Attitudes, Access to Information, Information Literacy, Adolescents, Internet, Self Efficacy, Nutrition, Age Differences, Gender Differences
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: High Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Texas
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A