Impact of E-health Literacy on Diabetes Self-Care Activities Among People With Type 2 Diabetes Attending Primary Healthcare Centers in Makkah City, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study, 2025.

BACKGROUND

The rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Saudi Arabia necessitates effective self-management strategies. E-health literacy, the ability to access and utilize digital health information, may play a critical role in improving diabetes self-care. This study examined the relationship between e-health literacy and self-care activities among patients with T2DM in Makkah City.

METHODOLOGY

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 360 patients with T2DM attending primary healthcare centers in Makkah. Participants completed a structured questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, e-health literacy, and diabetes self-care activities. Hierarchical regression and logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate associations while controlling for confounders.

RESULTS

The mean e-health literacy score was moderate (3.13/5), with significant gaps in evaluating online health resources. Higher e-health literacy was strongly associated with improved self-care practices (β = 0.497, < 0.001) and better glycemic control (odds ratio (OR) = 2.985, < 0.001). Key barriers included difficulty understanding medical terms (205, 56.9%), distrust in online sources (196, 54.4%), and lack of time (220, 61.1%). Significant disparities were observed, with males, younger individuals, and those with higher education and income reporting greater e-health literacy.

CONCLUSIONS

E-health literacy significantly influences diabetes self-care and glycemic outcomes among patients with T2DM in Saudi Arabia. However, barriers such as limited digital skills and distrust in online health information hinder optimal utilization. Targeted interventions to enhance e-health literacy, particularly for older, less educated, and female patients, are essential for improving diabetes management. Future research should explore culturally tailored digital health education programs to bridge these gaps.