The use of social media among the pediatric colorectal community
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Read the article on link.springer.com ↗Article · Jan 2022 · 1 min read
In brief
In brief
Cross-platform analysis of 247 social media accounts reveals distinct patterns in how families access pediatric colorectal information: Instagram favors personal narratives, Facebook hosts support communities, and Twitter provides scientific content from healthcare providers. Study demonstrates social media's dual role as both medical information source and peer support network for families managing complex colorectal conditions.
Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.
Abstract
Purpose
Pediatric colorectal conditions require complex medical care and can require lifelong support. Caregivers often seek medical information on the internet. The aim of this study was to characterize the use of three social media platforms for information sharing about pediatric colorectal conditions.
Methods
A systematic study of Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter was performed using standardized search terms. Accounts with activity within the last year were included. Quantitative data were collected. Accounts were qualitatively assessed and assigned a functional category. Group differences were tested via Kruskal–Wallis test and Fisher’s exact tests for continuous and categorical variables, respectively.
Results
A total of 96 Instagram accounts, 57 Twitter accounts, 49 Facebook pages, and 45 Facebook groups were identified. Accounts originated from 24 countries and the greatest number of accounts was created in 2013. The most common source of information on Instagram was from personal accounts (74.0%), on Facebook was from support groups (45.7%), and on Twitter was from health care providers (35.1%), (p < 0.001). The most common functional categories on Instagram were personal story (69.8%), on Twitter were scientific information/medical research (57.9%), and on Facebook were supportive/story sharing (47.8%), (p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Social media serves as a source for medical information and allows for supportive communities for pediatric colorectal patients and their families to exist.