Online Search Strategies and Results From a Crowdsourced Survey on Asymptomatic Bacteriuria

Abstract

Importance Despite the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB), what proportion of the population is aware of this condition and the quality of internet resources are currently unknown. Objective This study aimed to use an online crowdsourcing platform to explore general knowledge and internet search strategies, along with the quality of information, on ASB. Study Design An online survey was administered through a crowdsourcing platform to women 50 years or older via Qualtrics, which is a sophisticated online survey tool. Participants completed a survey on ASB, and participants were asked how they would search the internet for information both on urinary test results and on ASB. Outcomes included survey responses, and qualitative data were coded and analyzed thematically. χ2 Testing and regression modeling were used to look for variables associated with concern for ASB. Results There were a total of 518 participants who passed attention check qualifications, and only 45 respondents (8.7%) had heard of ASB. Many were concerned about progress to a worsening infection (n = 387 [77.6%]). When controlling for confounders, education beyond a college degree was not associated with a lower concern for ASB when compared with those with a high school education or less (adjusted odds ratio, 0.63; 95% confidence interval, 0.25–1.55; P = 0.31). Medical providers were the target audience for a majority of the websites, and many of the patient-facing results were of poor quality. Conclusions Our national survey of women demonstrated a prevalent knowledge deficit surrounding ASB. We must seek to create high-quality, readily available, patient-facing information to increase awareness of ASB, allay concerns, and increase antibiotic stewardship.