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<p>Cyberchondria, the excessive use of the internet for health-related research, often leads to increased anxiety, and misinterpretation of symptoms that can exacerbate somatic symptoms. This study aimed to detect the prevalence of cyberchondria, somatic symptoms, and their association with internet-based self-diagnosis behaviors among Saudi individuals. This cross-sectional online questionnaire-based study included 1,377 adult Saudi participants. Sociodemographic characteristics, Cyberchondria Severity Scale scores, Somatic Symptoms Scale scores, and internet use for health purposes were assessed, and their associations were explored. Among the participants, 724 (52.6%) exhibited higher cyberchondria and somatic symptom scores. Younger females experienced adverse health condition with lower socioeconomic status and frequent internet use were significantly associated with increased severity of cyberchondria and somatic symptoms (<i>p</i>-value was &lt; 0.01). Moreover, affordability, and the sense of confidence provided by internet self-diagnosis were key factors influencing self-management intentions in 54.6% and 34.1% of participants, respectively. Public awareness campaigns are needed to highlight risks of self-diagnosis and the importance of seeking professional medical advice for health concerns. In addition, providing evidence-based information through public health initiatives websites and applications can empower individuals’ informed health decisions.</p>

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Cyberchondria, somatic symptoms, and internet-based self-diagnosis among the Saudi population

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2025年5月25日

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  • Nouran Aleyeidi,
  • Amel Fayed,
  • Ghada Alnowaiser,
  • Rahaf Aldubayyan,
  • Leen Alfahhad,
  • Jumanah Alhosaini,
  • Maha Alonaizi,
  • Tasneem Albahli,
  • Lamees Alaradi,
  • Seba Alharbi,
  • Shahd Aleid,
  • Shahad AlShammary,
  • Samah F. Ibrahim

摘要

Cyberchondria, the excessive use of the internet for health-related research, often leads to increased anxiety, and misinterpretation of symptoms that can exacerbate somatic symptoms. This study aimed to detect the prevalence of cyberchondria, somatic symptoms, and their association with internet-based self-diagnosis behaviors among Saudi individuals. This cross-sectional online questionnaire-based study included 1,377 adult Saudi participants. Sociodemographic characteristics, Cyberchondria Severity Scale scores, Somatic Symptoms Scale scores, and internet use for health purposes were assessed, and their associations were explored. Among the participants, 724 (52.6%) exhibited higher cyberchondria and somatic symptom scores. Younger females experienced adverse health condition with lower socioeconomic status and frequent internet use were significantly associated with increased severity of cyberchondria and somatic symptoms (p-value was < 0.01). Moreover, affordability, and the sense of confidence provided by internet self-diagnosis were key factors influencing self-management intentions in 54.6% and 34.1% of participants, respectively. Public awareness campaigns are needed to highlight risks of self-diagnosis and the importance of seeking professional medical advice for health concerns. In addition, providing evidence-based information through public health initiatives websites and applications can empower individuals’ informed health decisions.