Comparison of E-Health Literacy, Digital Health and Physical Activity Levels Of University Students In Different Fields

Abstract

Background and Purpose: This study aimed to compare the health literacy, e-health literacy, digital health, and physical activity levels of undergraduate students in different departments. Methods: Undergraduate students 307 of whom were studying in the Physiotherapy department (PT), and 228 in the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences (FEAS) participated in the study. Health literacy (HL) (European Health Literacy Scale), e-health literacy (E-Health Literacy Scale), digital literacy (Digital Literacy Scale), and physical activity level (International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF)) were assessed. Scales were applied to the participants electronically via Google Forms. Results: There was no difference between the e-HL, digital, and health literacy levels of both department students(p>0.05). 70.1% of all students did not have enough HL. PT department students' IPAQ-SF total score, severe physical activity, and walking activities were lower than FEAS students(p0.05). 79.6% of all students did not have sufficient physical activity levels (PALs). Conclusions: This study showed that HL and PALs were low in the majority of university students. HL education programs for university students before graduation and awareness studies to develop healthy behavior habits should be included in undergraduate education programs.