Association Between eHealth Literacy and Health Outcomes in German Elite Athletes using the GR-eHEALS

Abstract

Abstract Background Elite athletes face various sports-related stressors, which may increase their risk for physical and mental health symptoms. With the internet as an important source of (health) information, it is important for athletes to have eHealth literacy, i.e. the ability to access, understand and use electronic health information and services. However, it is presently uncertain whether eHealth literacy of elite athletes is linked to better health outcomes such as reduced injury frequency and behaviours like decreased substance abuse. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with N = 373 German elite athletes (229 females) from different types of sport (e.g., ball sports and water sports) who were included in the statistical analyses. The assessment compromised the GR-eHEALS measuring eHealth literacy, medical, sociodemographic, eHealth-related- and sports-related data. Confirmatory factor analyses and correlational analyses were performed to determine the validity of the GR-eHEALS and to assess the relation between eHealth literacy scores and health outcomes. Results The more frequently elite athletes had sustained minor or moderate injuries in the past, the higher the level of eHealth literacy they reported. Furthermore, consumption frequency of painkillers (r = .18, p = .002), sedatives (r = .12, p = .040), and cannabis (r = .29, p = .000) was positively associated with eHealth literacy scores. The confirmatory factor analysis of the GR-eHEALS showed an acceptable model fit with a 2-factor solution (information seeking and information appraisal). The GR-eHEALS showed good discriminant (r = − .09, p = .21) and convergent validity (digital confidence; r = .28, p < .001). Conclusion The GR-eHEALS is a valid instrument to assess eHealth literacy within the cohort of German elite athletes. Potential dangers of dealing with injury and psychological strain without reaching out for professional help should be considered.