Analysis of Influencing Factors of eHealth Literacy in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the factors influencing eHealth literacy among patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and to provide a reference for clinical interventions.

METHODS

From April 2025 to December 2025, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among patients diagnosed with OSAHS. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, the eHealth Literacy Scale, the Health Information Seeking Behavior Scale, the Chronic Disease Self-Efficacy Scale, the Social Support Scale, and the OSAHS Patient Self-Management Ability Questionnaire. Pearson or Spearman rank correlation coefficients were selected to conduct correlation analyses, aiming to explore the relationships among health information seeking behavior, information self-efficacy, social support, and eHealth literacy. Variables demonstrating statistical significance in the correlation analyses were then included in a multiple linear regression model to ultimately identify the factors influencing eHealth literacy in patients with OSAHS.

RESULTS

The study included 241 patients. The mean eHealth literacy score was 22.28±7.68, and the health information seeking behavior score was 141.00±20.16. The mean self-efficacy score was 9.20±2.96, social support score was 37.80±6.99, and self-management ability score was 62.51±13.76. Correlation analysis indicated that eHealth literacy was positively correlated with health information seeking behavior, self-efficacy, social support, and self-management ability (P<0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that family education level, duration of online health information seeking, health information behaviors, information demand, information sources, barriers to information access, social support, and life management skills were significant influencing factors of eHealth literacy.

CONCLUSION

eHealth literacy among patients with OSAHS is at a low level. Meanwhile, family education level, duration of online health information seeking, health information behavior, information needs, information sources, barriers to information access, social support, and life management skills have all been confirmed as significant predictors of eHealth literacy. Medical staff should assess patients' eHealth literacy and use identified factors to develop targeted strategies for improving self-management.