DIGITAL BEHAVIOR AND SELF-RATED HEALTH AMONG ADULTS IN KAZAKHSTAN: A CROSS-SECTIONAL SURVEY

Introduction: The rapid digitalization of society has led to a significant increase in screen time, raising concerns about its impact on public health. In Kazakhstan, limited research has been conducted on digital behaviour and its relationship with subjective health outcomes, particularly across different regions and levels of urbanization. This study aims to assess digital device usage patterns, the prevalence of digital overload symptoms, and their association with self-reported health among adults in four regions of Kazakhstan. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study surveyed 228 residents aged 20–65 from four regions of Kazakhstan (Almaty, Astana, Shymkent, and the rural village of Narynkol) using a structured paper-based questionnaire. The instrument covered digital device usage patterns, health complaints, and digital hygiene awareness. Statistical analysis included descriptive and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: High digital exposure was observed, with 89% of respondents reporting more than 4 hours of daily screen time. Common symptoms included eye fatigue, sleep disturbances, and neck pain (simultaneously reported by 102 respondents; 44.7%) and reduced physical activity (180; 78.9%). Males were less likely to report symptoms of digital fatigue (OR=0.28, p=0.008). Logistic regression showed that gender and region were significant predictors of self-rated health. Respondents from Astana and Almaty reported poorer subjective health compared to those from Shymkent (OR = 7.32, p<0.001; OR = 3.33, p< 0.05 respectively). Conclusion: Digital overload is a growing public health concern in Kazakhstan, especially in urban areas. The findings highlight the need for region-specific interventions to promote digital hygiene, reduce screen-related health risks, and raise awareness, particularly among women and users of multiple digital devices.