PREVALENCE OF CYBERCHONDRIA AND FACTORS INFLUENCING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG DOCTOR OF PHYSIOTHERAPY STUDENTS OF SARHAD UNIVERSITY PESHAWAR

Abstract

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: With increased online health information use, cyberchondria—excessive health anxiety from internet searches—has become a concern among students. This study explores its prevalence and impact on physical activity in Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) students at Sarhad University of science and information technology, Peshawar. METHODOLOGY: This study included 119 Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students, ranging in age from 18 to 25 years. The primary self-reported outcome measure utilized was the Chinese version of the Cyberchondria Severity Scale (C-CSS) which cover three dimensions: Negative Effects, excessiveness and Reassurance Seeking. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was chosen. Data were collected using non-probability convenience sampling through hard-copy questionnaires. Statistical analysis of the collected data was performed using SPSS version 20. RESULTS: Statistical analysis revealed that all participants had continuous internet access. Results showed 63% had severe cyberchondria, 32.8% moderate, and 4.2% low. Common symptoms included repeated searches, anxiety (49.5%), sleep issues (35.3%), appetite loss (26.1%), and social withdrawal. Notably, 42% never consulted a healthcare professional CONCLUSION: The study's findings indicate that Cyberchondria is highly prevalent among students and significantly impacts both mental and physical health. This suggests that factors such as repeated search online health information, internet usage habits and lack of professional medical guidance contribute to the severity of cyberchondria symptoms, leading to disruption in daily life and academic performance. Highlighting the need of Preventive measures like awareness, digital literacy, and support services.