The Relationship Between eHealth Literacy and Digital Literacy in University Students: The Case of Northern Cyprus

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to identify the relationship between the levels of eHealth and digital literacy in university students. Methods: This descriptive and correlational study was conducted on 469 students from non-health-related faculties in a university in Northern Cyprus during the spring semester of the 2020-2021 academic year. Descriptive information form, eHealth literacy scale, and digital literacy scale were used for data collection. Independent sample t-test, analysis of variance, Tukey, and Pearson’s test were used for data analysis. Results: There was a positive and statistically significant correlation between the eHealth Literacy Scale and Digital Literacy Scale total and sub-dimensions scores (P < .05). The mean score obtained from the eHealth Literacy Scale was 28.22 ± 7.86 (min. 8, max. 40). On the other hand, the mean score obtained from the Digital Literacy Scale was 58.87 ± 15.15 (min 17, max. 85). The eHealth Literacy Scale and Digital Literacy Scale scores of male students were significantly higher than female participants (P < .05). The eHealth and digital literacy levels of the participants, who believed that the internet is a valuable source of health information, were significantly higher than the other participants (P < .05). Conclusion: The levels of eHealth and digital literacy of the participants were relatively high. Finally, the level of digital literacy was positively correlated with the level of eHealth literacy. © 2023 AVES. All Rights Reserved.