فهرست نشریات علمی دسترسی آزاد ایران

Background and Objectives: This study explores whether gender moderates the link between cyberchondria and e-health literacy, the digital forms of hypochondriasis and health literacy. Observed gender-based differences in health literacy and health information-seeking behaviors, which suggest that gender may influence this relationship, are what spurred the study. Although it has been demonstrated that e-health literacy improves access to health-related information, its effects on cyberchondria remain unclear, especially when gender differences are taken into consideration. This study fills a gap in the literature by examining the under-researched moderating role of gender in this relationship, offering a novel perspective on digital health behaviors.Materials and Methods: Between March and May 2023, a cross-sectional online survey was conducted in Türkiye using convenience sampling. The study included 316 adults (44.9% men, 55.1% women). Data were collected using the Socio-Demographic Characteristics Form, e-Health Literacy Scale, and Cyberchondria Severity Scale, and analyzed using t-tests, ANOVA, correlation, and moderation analysis.Results: The study found moderate e-health literacy (mean = 28.59 ± 5.81) and cyberchondria (mean = 32.77 ± 8.53) levels. Gender and marital status significantly affected cyberchondria, with males and married individuals reporting higher severity. A weak positive correlation existed between e-health literacy and cyberchondria (r = 0.208, p < 0.001). Gender moderated this relationship: higher e-health literacy predicted increased cyberchondria in males (β = 0.600, p < 0.001) but not in females.Conclusion: This study shows that e-health literacy may increase the risk of cyberchondria, especially among men, who process online health information more anxiously than women, who use more adaptive strategies. Marital status also influences cyberchondria levels, with married individuals having higher levels. These results highlight the need for gender-sensitive digital health initiatives and customized coping approaches. Future research should examine additional factors, such as personality and coping mechanisms.