Predictors of Online Health Information-seeking Behaviors among College Latino Men

Objective: We assessed the types of online health information (OHI) searched, and factors that influence OHI-seeking for college Latino men (CLM). Methods: Participants (N = 127) were surveyed online. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and multivariable linear regression model fitting were conducted. Results: CLM frequently search for OHI. CLM sought OHI for others. Factors influencing OHI searches include the health status of CLM's family, monetary concerns, and physical appearance. Frequency of OHI-seeking predicts self-efficacy to seek healthcare services. OHI's message predicts self-efficacy to engage in health behavior management. Conclusions: CLM seem to be OHI brokers for family and loved ones. Findings give insight for healthcare professionals creating online health interventions targeted at young adult Latinos.