Usage of new-age digital technology on the day-to-day health practices: a cross-sectional study in urban area of central Gujarat

Abstract

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCD) are becoming a larger concern for individuals and the healthcare system. Poor diet and sedentary lifestyle are becoming more prevalent. Digital technologies have the potential to be useful tools for managing NCDs and altering health-related behaviours. Objectives were to estimate the proportion of users of digital technology for health, to know the type of digital devices use for health and to know the reasons and barriers of using and non-using it for health. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 303 people whose age more than fourteen year residing at one area of Ektanagar urban health centre of central Gujrat by doing house to house survey from July 2022 to August 2022. Data was collected by using semi-structured questionnaire in local language based on socio-demographic characteristics, various types of digital technology and reasons and barriers of using and non-using digital technology. Data was entered in MS excel sheet and was analysed using Medcalc software. Results: Around 55% were male, mean age was 42.2 year. Only 33% were using digital technology. Among them more than half around 62% were using it because they were health conscious. Among users not having time and non-affordability to use digital devices are an important reason for non-usage. Conclusions: Majority were not using digital technology for improving their health. Health consciousness was the main reason behind usage. Main barriers of usage are non-affordability and not having time to use the devices.