Disparities in Internet Access and Differences in Physical Activities and Exercise Knowledge

Objective:   Although the Internet offers promise as a health promotion and education tool, the fact that ~30% of U.S. adults are not accessing the Internet remains an unresolved challenge.  Health “knowledge gaps” are one projected consequence of Internet access disparities where individuals with access to desirable health information gain knowledge, and potentially, health advantages. Accordingly, we ask if disparities in Internet access are associated with differences in physical activity guideline (PAG) knowledge.

Methods:  Data were from the 2007 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS, n=6,608). A single, dichotomously coded item assessed Internet access (not accessing, 35%).  PAG knowledge was assessed by asking “How many days a week of physical activity or exercise of at least moderate intensity are recommended for the average adult to stay healthy?” (M=4.14, SD=1.42).  A 2x2 factorial model with Internet access and sex as fixed factors, accommodating the HINTS survey design and adjusting for demographics, was computed.

Results:  Both main effects and the interaction were significant.  The associated means showed that lower PAG knowledge were reported by individuals accessing the Internet (M=4.08), males (M=4.09), and, in particular, by males accessing the Internet (M=3.97).  Black race/ethnicity, compared with white, adjusted the model negatively.

Conclusion:  The finding that respondents accessing the Internet – especially males – reported significantly lower PAG knowledge contradicts the “knowledge gaps” notion.  Potential explanations, including internet use as a sedentary behavior, will be discussed.  Strategies for tailoring and targeting future PA health promotion and education endeavors will be considered.