Prevalence of Internet Addiction Among Students and Graduates of Epidemiology, Clinical Sciences, and Basic Sciences in Iran: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Internet addiction is a social-physiological event with emotional disturbance, depression, and disruption of social relationships. In addition, Internet addiction has a negative effect on the efficacy of the affected people. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Internet addiction in students and graduates of medical sciences. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on the sideline of epidemiology, microbiology and pediatric diseases congresses from May to October 2013. The participants included the students and graduates of epidemiology, clinical sciences, and other basic sciences from all medical universities of throughout Iran. The Young’s addiction questionnaire was used to assess Internet addiction. Results: One hundred and thirty one students and graduates with a mean age 36.1 (±8.4) years participated in this study. The prevalence of mild and moderate Internet addiction was 61.83% (95% CI: 40.53, 70.26) and 26.95% (95% CI: 26.95, 33.56), respectively. None of the participants suffered from severe Internet addiction. Conclusion: Severe Internet addiction was not observed in our study. However, a high proportion of the participants had mild and moderate Internet addiction. Therefore, many participants may be at risk of severe addiction. It seems that planning for preventive measures, especially in academic groups, is necessary.

Keywords

• internet addiction
• young
• prevalence
• iran