Positive Perception of Self-Medication Practice and Cyberchondria Behavior Among Adults in Bangladesh

Cyberchondria is a distinct behavioral syndrome that is closely related to health anxiety/hypochondria and excessive online searching for health information and/or digital self-tracking. Despite the reported prevalence of self-medication, cyberchondria research is still in its infancy in Bangladesh. We investigated the relationship between Cyberchondria and self-medication among adults. This was a cross-sectional study conducted with 480 individuals who had internet access and who can read both Bangla and English. The Cyberchondria Severity Scale and the self-medication perception Questionnaire were applied to the participants. Univariate and hierarchical multiple linear regression analyses were used to analyze the data. Of the study group 283 (59%) were male, and 197 (41%), were female. Their ages ranged from 18 to 40 years, with an average of 25.1 (± 5.97) years. The positive perception of self-medication was prevalent in 279 (58.1%) adults. Cyberchondria and perception of self-medication were positively related and in the final model self-medication, age and residence were found to be the significant determinants of cyberchondria. Positive perception of self-medication practice may be a potential risk factor for Cyberchondria. People's health-related actions can be influenced by their cyberchondria behavior, so it's crucial that online health resources are safe. Cyberchondria is a mental health disorder, and this study's findings could inform future research into the causes of this condition.