Determinants of Online Health Information Seeking and Trust in Kuwait

Abstract

Health information seeking behaviors and trust in health information can facilitate medical decision-making. This study aimed to determine the effects of certain sociodemographic, health, and health-related characteristics associated with online health information seeking behaviors and trust in health information. The study was conducted with 590 participants from Kuwait, and the logistic regression method was used. Gender, perceived health status, and health information-seeking topics (illness, doctor, medication, etc.) influenced health information-seeking behaviors. Another finding was that employment status significantly influenced trust in online health information related to the research topic. Various sociodemographic and other characteristics influence people’s seeking behaviors for health information online and their trust in health information. Seeking behaviors and trust in online health information can improve healthcare outcomes by promoting communication and interaction between patients and healthcare providers. By examining the impact of sociodemographic and health-related factors on patient behaviors and trust in online health information, healthcare providers can better tailor their communication with patients to each individuals’ needs. © The Author(s) 2025.