Cyberchondria Among Medical Students in a Tertiary Care Setting: A Cross-Sectional Study

Dr. K Supriya, Dr. Narendra B C, Dr. Poonam M

Abstract: Introduction: Cyberchondria is a relatively new phenomenon defined as excessive online searching for health-related information, which paradoxically increases rather than alleviates health anxiety. In the digital era, medical students are particularly vulnerable due to their easy access to medical literature and heightened academic stress. Objective: The present study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of cyberchondria among medical students in a tertiary care teaching hospital and to evaluate its correlation with academic year, gender, and prior history of significant illness. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate medical students at KVG Medical College. The Cyberchondria Severity Scale-15 (CSS-15) was used as the primary tool to assess the severity and domains of cyberchondria. Severity was categorized as mild (?25), moderate (26?40), and severe (?41) based on CSS-15 scoring guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate tests to find associations between severity and demographic variables. Results: Out of the total students surveyed, 58.67% demonstrated moderate levels of cyberchondria. The mean CSS-15 scores in the mild, moderate, and severe categories were 22, 31, and 49 respectively. Early-year students (first and second year) showed higher scores compared to final-year students. There was no significant difference between male and female students (p > 0.05). No significant correlation was observed with prior history of illness. Conclusion: Cyberchondria is prevalent with moderate severity among medical students in this setting. This indicates a paradox where medical knowledge does not necessarily reduce health-related anxiety. Targeted interventions including digital literacy, stress management modules, and psychological screening in early years are recommended.

Keywords: Cyberchondria, Medical Students, CSS-15, Health Anxiety, Digital Health

How to Cite?: Dr. K Supriya, Dr. Narendra B C, Dr. Poonam M, "Cyberchondria Among Medical Students in a Tertiary Care Setting: A Cross-Sectional Study", Volume 14 Issue 8, August 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 823-825, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25816082008, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25816082008