Prevalence and Associated Factors of Cyberchondria: A Scoping Review.

ABSTRACT: Cyberchondria, defined as heightened health anxiety and distress arising from excessive online searches about medical symptoms or risks, is an emerging mental health concern in the digital era. However, less synthesized evidence exists on its prevalence, associated factors, and their impact on health. This scoping review synthesized evidence on its prevalence, associated factors, and impacts. Following Arksey and O'Malley's framework, four databases (PubMed, Scopus, JSTOR, Dimensions), alongside Google Scholar and reference lists, were systematically searched. A total of 42 studies were included. Prevalence estimates ranged from 30.7% to 55.6%, with consistent links to health anxiety, internet addiction, and anxiety sensitivity. Demographic variations were observed by age, gender, and occu

SUBMITTER: Miezah D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12825022 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature