Data Health Literacy University Student

This repository contains the anonymized SPSS dataset (.sav) used in the article Health Literacy, Misinformation, Self-Perceived Risk and Fear, and Preventive Measures Related to COVID-19 in Spanish University Students (Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 2022), DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215370.The study examines Spanish university students’ COVID-19–related health literacy, risk perception, exposure/confusion regarding misinformation, and attitudes and preventive behaviors aimed at reducing SARS-CoV-2 transmission. It is a descriptive cross-sectional study with non-probability convenience sampling, including 499 volunteer university students enrolled at Spanish universities.Data were collected using an online questionnaire (Google Forms) disseminated via WhatsApp and social media between 28 January and 28 February 2021. Dataset content The questionnaire includes:Sociodemographics: age, sex, municipality size, field/degree program, and academic year. COVID-19 Health Literacy (HLCQ, 9 items): perceived difficulty in accessing, understanding, appraising, and applying health information (4-point scale from “very difficult” to “very easy”). HLCQ index (0–50): computed as (mean − 1) × (50/3) and categorized as inadequate (0–25), problematic (26–33), or sufficient (34–50).COVID-19 information sources and frequency of use (1–5), including mass media, social media/internet, and official sources (e.g., Ministry of Health, WHO).Misinformation-related confusion: difficulty distinguishing true from false information.COVID-19 knowledge (13 items): transmission and prevention (including beliefs about transmission routes and correct mask use); a total score (0–13) can be derived by summing correct answers.Risk perception (Health Belief Model): perceived severity, perceived susceptibility (1–5), and perceived invulnerability (1–5).Preventive behaviors (past 7 days): e.g., handwashing, hand sanitizer use, avoiding gatherings, staying home with symptoms, physical distancing, mask use, surface disinfection, avoiding public transport, limiting outings; a total count of behaviors can be derived.Fear/concern and trust in information sources: items on emotions, general/specific worry, and trust in different channels (1–5).Statistical analysis The original study used descriptive analyses and non-parametric tests as appropriate (based on distribution): Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis, and Spearman correlations, along with tests of normality (Kolmogorov–Smirnov/Shapiro–Wilk) and homogeneity of variance (Levene).Ethical and legal considerationsThe deposited dataset is anonymized. The study followed the Declaration of Helsinki; participants were informed about the study aims, voluntary participation, and anonymity, and provided informed consent before completing the questionnaire. Data were collected exclusively for research purposes.