News-Finds-Me Perception, Substance Use Misinformation Beliefs, and Nonmedical Prescription Drug Use: The Moderating Effect of Gender

<i>Background</i>: The inappropriate use of medications prescribed by physicians is complicated by the presence of misinformation and disinformation about substances, shaping attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions around the use of substances. <i>Objectives</i>: This study aims to explore the associations among "news-finds-me" (NFM) perceptions, substance misinformation beliefs, and nonmedical prescription drug use, with particular attention to how these associations vary by gender. <i>Results</i>: In order to understand these associations, we conduct a national survey in the U.S. among young adults aged 18-29 (<i>N</i> = 1201). The findings from a moderated mediation model show that participants with higher NFM perceptions tend to have greater substance use misinformation beliefs, which in turn, is associated with increased acceptance of nonmedical prescription drug use. Moreover, this association is moderated by gender such that the association is true only for males in our sample. <i>Conclusions</i>: This study suggests the broader implications of passive information consumption on substance misinformation belief and substance use behavior in case of males, suggesting that targeted strategies are necessary to address gender-specific differences.