Impact of media exposure to Tuberculosis prevention information on health beliefs and preventive behaviors among lower-grade university students in Guangzhou

Content related to TB prevention methods received the highest attention (3.6±0.8). Regression analysis indicated that media type and content focus significantly influenced all HBM dimensions (P<0.01), while exposure frequency only affected perceived susceptibility, barriers, and self-efficacy (P<0.01). Media exposure, education level, and gender collectively impacted TB prevention behaviors (F=60.301, P<0.01).Conclusion Lower-grade university students in Guangzhou primarily rely on new media for TB prevention information, but exposure frequency and engagement remain insufficient.

Media type and content focus selectively shape health beliefs and behaviors, whereas exposure frequency specifically influenced perceived susceptibility, barriers, self-efficacy and preventive behaviors. A "new media-dominant, traditional media-supplemented" health communication strategy is recommended, emphasizing information quality improvement and targeted interventions for vocational colleges and male students.