An examination by race of differences in understanding health problems among men who sought health information

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: Health information seeking is associated with positive health outcomes in men however minority men appear to benefit less from health information seeking compared to white men. An engaged patient is also associated with greater confidence to manage one's health. However, this area remains understudied in minority men. The aim of this study is to assess the differences by race in understanding the factors associated with health problems and the medical options available for treatment among those who sought health information. STUDY DESIGN: This study used data from the 2007 Health Tracking Household Survey. We used logistic regression analysis to assess racial/ethnic differences in believing one could manage their health among men who sought health information. POPULATION STUDIED: The analytical sample included 8179 men >=18 years of age. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Compared to white men, African American and Hispanic men were more likely to agree that taking an active role in their health is most important to health (OR 1.67 and 1.78). African American were also more likely to know the causes of health problems (OR1.19) and Hispanic men were less likely (OR .87) compared to white men. CONCLUSIONS: African American and Hispanic men are more likely to agree that taking an active role is most important to their health however there appears to be a disconnect with health outcomes for them. IMPLICATIONS FOR POLICY, DELIVERY OR PRACTICE: Additional studies should focus on understanding the dynamics of confidence what role in plays it the health of American and Hispanic men.