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 ®, 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 ® 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 ®, 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 ® 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.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 28-36 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Journal of School Health |
Volume | 82 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 2012 |
Keywords
- Child and adolescent health
- Health communication
- Health informatics
- Health literacy
- MedlinePlus