#MDA20009 Week7

[arifffitriii]

I Took Advice From the Internet

Imagine this right, I sleep that night with a headache. I woke up the next morning still with a headache and also a sore throat. And I’m worryingly getting hotter (temperature-wise). So the first thing I did that day was to Google my symptom. The first search result shows me the answer. I couldn’t bother scrolling more down because there are too many complicated medical terms. So I took advice from the internet, turns out I just need some rest and drink enough water.

But anyway, you get what I’m trying to say. and you most likely have done the same thing. Googling symptoms and taking advice from the internet has been normalized today. At some point, some people would probably go to see the doctor just for a second opinion, because they already diagnosed themself on the internet. 

Although, finding/googling health information online isn't always harmful because it occasionally can point you in the right direction. But the thing is, the more you do research, you’ll find more complex medical terms and identify a serious illness that you may or may not have and it can cause unnecessary stress which then affects your mental health. Basically being paranoid.

"just drink HOT water laa and expose yourself to SUN then you can’t get covid lehh”

if it couldn’t be more obvious, social media is being used to share knowledge, especially during the time of the covid pandemic. Unfortunately, information about COVID is not the only thing that spread around, fake news and stupid/funny rumors were also being shared. I don’t wanna throw shades at anyone but, thanks to aunties and uncles in Malaysia the fake rumors spread across Malaysia smoothly like butter, like a criminal undercover, especially on their favorite platform, Fesbuk. The fake news was also helped spread by Parent-Teacher Association and the Kampung/Resident area Wassap group.

Some highlights of the funny rumor include: 

Special military helicopters will spray pesticide from the sky all over the country tonight, so please stay indoors. (one of the funniest rumors I’ve heard)

Vaccinated people contain a microchip and can emit Bluetooth signals. (my personal favorite)

Coronavirus pandemic will slow in the summer due to the heat.

Drinking hot water fights the coronavirus (spoiler alert: u will burn your tongue)

A good diet can prevent coronavirus (they just want u to be healthy)

To conclude, just don’t rely so much on news from social media (particularly  Fesbuk and Wassap), especially for public health issues. No matter who sends it to you just make sure to do a fact-check. and go check a more trustworthy source. okay bye.

[arlnlms]

Influencers Shaping Public Health Misinformation: "Dr. Tiktok" and Mukbang Culture

MDA20009 Digital Communities │ Week 7: Public Health Campaigns

Are you like me and every other human on this planet? Always on the phone, doomscrolling through Tiktok, Instagram reels and Youtube.

Undeniably, it has now gone out of bounds as social media can be a great source of entertainment, but they've also let the floodgates open for a lot of misinformation generally with reference to health and wellness. Once you spend long enough on such platforms, towards the end, you will begin to observe the visible rise of self-proclaimed "experts" giving out advice on every health issue, from mental to skincare, which is starting to raise eyebrows.

On the other hand, influencers involved in Mukbang culture are distorting the message about eating habits and body image. Their unethical health narratives, though not clearly disseminated, confuse the followers and damage public health campaigns well-designed to give accurate, science-backed messages.

The Rise of Self-Proclaimed Health Experts

TikTok's short video format encourages users to share quick tips, life hacks, and advice, earning it the nickname "the therapist's couch of Gen Z" (Weikle, 2024). Although it owes a great deal to destigmatizing mental health and making it easier to talk about issues, there have also been concerns about misinformation. Indeed, the unqualified pretender plays out their authority over complex issues, such as mental health, nutrition, or skincare.

Self-diagnosis and providing mental health advice has been an emerging trend as of late. The "Dr. TikToks" profess to know all the symptoms of illnesses like depression, anxiety, or ADHD and can influence viewers into self-diagnosing rather than visiting a professional. Research by the University of British Columbia found that of the 100 most popular TikTok videos about ADHD, over half contained misleading information, most of which relied on personal experiences rather than being clinical experts (Weikle, 2024).

Another disturbing thing is that some influencers take up roles as skincare experts by providing tips on easy access to perfect skin through their 'magic' ingredients. One infamous example is the TikTok influencer/physician's assistant (TikTok handle: devthepa) who promoted beef tallow, a rendered fat from beef, as a skincare miracle. According to her, beef tallow could give your skin a glowy look, like DUH, of course, fat is oil, so of course, it gives that "glowy effect" when, in reality, it's just oily. Dermatologists quickly debunked these claims. Despite concerning warnings, the video still went viral, and many people, particularly younger followers, began to follow this advice without understanding how useless it is.

Misinformation tends to be left unchecked. That underlines the utility of unverified advice. TikTok encourages conversations that can help destigmatize mental illness yet lends themselves to those throaty mouths and parroting personal anecdotes mixed with professional credentials as influencers.

Mukbang Culture: The Illusion of Eating Without Consequences

A comparison between 2 famous Mukbangers: Eat with Boki and Nikocado Avocado

Mukbang has invaded the world, coming from South Korea, where influencers devoured high volumes of food while engaging viewers. The practice has gained much prominence on sites like YouTube and TikTok. Mukbangers mainly eat a lot of calories while looking like they ate nothing at all through some strenuous workouts to attain and maintain their healthy-looking figures. This world creation misleads the average person into believing there are no health risks associated with overeating, especially when the influencers do not mention calorie deprivation or editing tricks (Amrane, 2020).

Encouragement towards excessiveness has been opposed to measures taken on public health with regard to balanced eating. Mukbang content may provide some retreat for viewers, or even a little companionship, but it then normalizes excessive consumption and food choice itself for being excessively unhealthy for audiences. For younger groups, this distortion can ruin their standards toward the reality of nutrition as well as create misinterpretations in eating patterns. Mukbang culture, according to Amrane (2020), relies on and impacts instant gratification sacrifices for long-term health, forming an unhealthy aspect over food.

The social consequences are huge. Public health efforts, such as anti-obesity campaigns, speak about moderation and mindful eating, while mukbangs endorse a lifestyle of excess, which is contrary. Beyond the individual consequences, this trend reveals a more universal ethical dilemma: waste normality and overconsumption in a world where there is still hunger.

The Dangers of Medical and Health Misinformation

Self-proclaiming medical experts on social media and mukbang influencers are vocalizing their interpretations of public health, with greater emphasis on entertainment and sponsorships rather than audience wellbeing. It actually promotes unproven supplements, harmful self-diagnosis, and unhealthy habits. Thus, their efforts in misleading people about trust in authentic health advice. It requires an entire cascade of events, setting further trivialities and trifles along a domino line to make a whole the unregulated social media however put in place positive wrinkles in disinformation, while sending wrong information with speed and with no confirmation on qualification or allegations can let it within hours reach millions of individuals and further entangle public health efforts.

Combating Misinformation: Key Strategies

So, how do we combat this growing wave of misinformation?

Platform Accountability: social media platforms take greater responsibility for what is shared online. While Instagram and TikTok have made important strides in tackling some harmful content, there is much further to go with respect to health-related advice from credible sources. Such platforms should focus their attention on verified health professionals and improve tools for flagging or reporting misleading advice.

Adapt Public Health Campaigns: Partner up with relevant influencers to relay accurate, engaging, and evidence-based health information.

Promote Media Literacy: Educate the public to tell the difference between real health advice from personal stories or unverifiable claims.

Conclusion

In an age of social media where viewpoints on health and wellness are created, this has become an important point for all awareness and updates. The healer "Dr TikTok" and, of course, Mukbang culture gives importance to the phrase mentioned above in such a way that it shows the power and pitfalls of digital platforms in the public health sphere.

Merely holding internet platforms accountable in dealing with misinformation, changing public health campaigns to bring them into the digital contemporary space, and building media literacy are steps to a country where more citizens benefit from being well-informed and health conscious. Public health campaigns must reform in the Internet age, ensuring that the right information reaches audiences before the wrong messages go viral.

List of References:

Amrane, S. (2020, November 16). Mukbangs and a culture of gluttony. Traversing Tradition. https://traversingtradition.com/2020/11/16/mukbangs-and-a-culture-of-gluttony/

Weikle, B. (2024, June 22). TikTok has been called the therapist’s couch of Gen Z. But not all the #mentalhealth info checks out. CBC. https://www.cbc.ca/radio/spark/mental-health-tiktok-1.7242717

[weiwhat]

'Social Media: The Unexpected Hero of the Pandemic?'

Social media? That cesspool of doomscrolling, misinformation, and endless arguments? But Hero of the pandemic? No way! Erdem, however argues the pandemic have enable social media to influence modern schooling of public health, essentially saving lives (Erdem 2021). Public health, as defined by Winslow, involves the science and practice of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting community health through organized efforts and informed choices made by various stakeholders (Winslow n.d.). These stakeholders include public and private entities, communities, individuals, and organizations. In contrast. Social media, on the other hand according to Gregersen, encompasses online platforms for mass communication, enabling users to connect and share content such as messages, ideas, and information(Gregersen 2024). In the modern era, public health and social media have increasingly intertwined. This interconnectedness prompts an important question: How effective is social media in disseminating information about COVID-19?

While pre-existing concerns about misinformation and echo chambers were amplified, the crisis also revealed the unprecedented power of these platforms for disease surveillance, information dissemination, community engagement, and health promotion. Social media became a virtual battleground where accurate information and dangerous falsehoods clashed, influencing public perception and behavior in ways never seen before.   

Disease Surveillance and Public Health Monitoring

-First Alarm of Covid Emergence From Twitter (X)

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical role of information in public health crises, with social media emerging as a dominant force. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook became primary sources for real-time updates, enabling organizations like the WHO and CDC to communicate directly with the public (Moorhead et al. as cited in Kanchan & Gaidhane 2023). This allowed for rapid dissemination of vital information about symptoms, prevention, and evolving public health recommendations, proving crucial in a dynamic situation with frequently changing guidelines (Kanchan & Gaidhane 2023).

-Snapshot of Facebook lives, providing updates in times of lockdown (Facebook-5.3 Million)

Furthermore, social media facilitated public health advocacy and policy shaping. Health professionals and advocacy groups utilized these platforms to engage with the public and decision-makers, promoting evidence-based policies like mask mandates and vaccination strategies (Kanchan & Gaidhane 2023). By amplifying diverse voices and marginalized perspectives, social media fostered a more inclusive and equitable public health response, ensuring a broader range of perspectives informed policy discussions and interventions.

 Information Dissemination

However, this same speed and accessibility that made social media a valuable tool for public health communication also fueled the spread of misinformation, conspiracy theories, and unverified claims (Pool, Fatehi & Akhlaghpour 2021). The "infodemic" that accompanied the pandemic, as termed by the WHO (2020), hindered public health efforts, fueled distrust in authorities, and even led to harmful behaviors such as the rejection of vaccines or the promotion of unproven remedies (Pool, Fatehi & Akhlaghpour 2021). This effectively eluded the needs for effective strategies to combat misinformation and promote critical media literacy in the digital age.

-Infodemic sources/Misinformation were censored and surveilled on Twitter (X)

Despite these challenges, social media also emerged as a powerful tool for combating misinformation. Experts and fact-checkers utilized these platforms to debunk false claims, provide evidence-based information, and promote adherence to public health guidelines (Sharma et al as cited in Kanchan & Gaidhane 2023). Social media also facilitated the rapid dissemination of research findings, clinical trial data, and treatment protocols, accelerating the global exchange of knowledge and helping healthcare professionals stay updated on the latest developments in COVID-19 management (Kanchan & Gaidhane 2023). This accelerated pace of information sharing proved crucial in a dynamic pandemic situation where scientific understanding and best practices were constantly evolving.

 Community Engagement

-Solidarity among Malaysian Healthcare workers ticked up via social media, in times of Movement Control Order (MCO)

Beyond its role in information dissemination, social media played a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and providing support during a time of unprecedented isolation and anxiety. Online communities and forums became spaces for individuals to connect, share their experiences, and offer encouragement (Naslund et al. as cited in Kanchan & Gaidhane 2023). This virtual support network helped mitigate the mental health impacts of lockdowns and social distancing measures, reminding people that they were not alone in their struggles. Social media platforms also became hubs for organizing mutual aid initiatives, coordinating donation drives, and providing support to frontline healthcare workers, showcasing the potential of these platforms to galvanize collective action and foster resilience in the face of adversity (Kanchan & Gaidhane 2023).

Health promotion

-Facebook groups 'Caremongering' bring communities to our screens during MCO

Social media platforms also offer a opportunity to engage with individuals and communities in promoting healthy behaviors and facilitating positive change (Kanchan & Gaidhane 2023). Targeted campaigns and interventions can be delivered through social media, reaching specific demographics with tailored messages about disease prevention, healthy lifestyles, and mental well-being (Kanchan & Gaidhane 2023). Studies have shown the effectiveness of social media interventions in addressing issues such as risky drinking ,cannabis use among young adults and most importantly during Covid isolation (Kanchan & Gaidhane 2023).

Concluding, the COVID-19 pandemic served as a powerful demonstration of both the potential and the challenges of social media in public health. While the spread of misinformation and ethical concerns remain significant challenges, the pandemic also highlighted the unprecedented ability of these platforms to disseminate vital information, foster community support, empower individuals and communities to take action, and shape public health policies. As we move forward, it is crucial to learn from the experiences of the pandemic and harness the power of social media responsibly and ethically to build a more informed, connected, and resilient global community.

References

Erdem, B 2021, ‘The Role of Social Media in the Times of the Covid-19 Pandemic’, European Journal of Social Sciences, vol. 4, no. 2, p. 110.

Gregersen, E 2024, ‘Social Media’, Encyclopædia Britannica, viewed <https://www.britannica.com/topic/social-media>.

Kanchan, S & Gaidhane, A 2023, ‘Social Media Role and Its Impact on Public Health: a Narrative Review’, Cureus, vol. 15, no. 1, p. e33737, viewed <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9925030/>.

Pool, J, Fatehi, F & Akhlaghpour, S 2021, ‘Infodemic, Misinformation and Disinformation in Pandemics: Scientific Landscape and the Road Ahead for Public Health Informatics Research’, Studies in Health Technology and Informatics, vol. 281, pp. 764–768, viewed 31 August 2021, <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34042681/>.

Winslow, C n.d., Public Health 101 Series Instructor name Title Organization, viewed <https://www.cdc.gov/training-publichealth101/media/pdfs/introduction-to-public-health.pdf>.

[j4ydn]

The Usefulness of Social Media in Spreading Information on COVID-19

Public health refers to the study and practise of averting illness, extending life, and fostering well-being via planned initiatives and well-informed decisions made by public and private entities, communities, individual citizens, and organisations (Winslow, cited in Chin 2023). On the other hand, social media can be defined as an online venue for mass media communications where users may communicate and share messages, ideas, information, and other stuff (Britannica 2023). It can be said that both public health and social media complement each other in this day and age. That being said, is social media useful in spreading information on COVID-19?

At the height of the pandemic, social media platforms like Twitter/X, Facebook, and Instagram emerged as hubs for rapid and real-time updates and information on COVID-19. These sites gave users a place to share COVID-related information instantly. At the time, people were able to share and find information more rapidly because of social media's widespread use, and the same can be said when it comes to emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) like COVID-19 (Kothari, Walker & Burns 2022). In addition to tracking the spread of EIDs, social media was able to assist with the dissemination of preventative information and alerts (Houston et al., cited in Kothari, Walker & Burns 2022). Numerous studies have shown that social media not only helps spread information quickly and raise awareness, but that it also becomes more popular during these moments of distress when people are more likely to look for information (Taleb et al. 2021).

Besides that, social media allows for the authorities to connect with the people in regard to COVID-19. According to Gough et al. (cited in Reveilhac 2022), politicians and medical professionals, among others, are using social media more and more to share health information with the public. As an example, social media was utilised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to inform the public about health-related developments, as per Taleb et al. (2021). During the COVID-19 pandemic, this tendency reached heights previously unheard of, in an attempt to increase the public’s confidence in scientific knowledge relating to COVID-19 (van Dijck & Alinejad, cited in Reveilhac 2022). Simultaneously, people became more dependent on social media to get news and information on COVID-19 (Nielsen et al., cited in Reveilhac 2022). As a result, social media platforms were crucial in facilitating communication between political authorities and the public (Rauchfleisch, Vogler & Eisenegger, cited in Reveilhac 2022).

Furthermore, social media is beneficial in amplifying COVID-19 information. Chou et al. and Thackeray et al. (cited in Syn 2021) state that the use of social media in health communication has grown in importance. Not only that, but social media is an effective tool for spreading health information and promoting healthcare, according to both social media users and medical professionals (Thackeray et al.; Jha et al., cited in Syn 2021). Moreover, as mentioned by Reveilhac (2022), social media is crucial in this aspect because they enable people to get pass conventional forms of 'gatekeepers' like newspapers and political parties in order to encourage others to take pre-emptive action and ensure that related policies are followed by the general public.

In conclusion, there is no denying that social media was crucial in the dissemination of knowledge and information on COVID-19. The emergence and growth of social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter/X in recent times, which happened to coincide with a number of health crises, including the H1N1 virus in 2009, and the Ebola virus in 2013 have demonstrated how effective they are to distribute vital medical information to large audiences during public emergencies, such as EIDs (Taleb et al. 2021). In a separate study by Chang, Pham & Ferrara (2023), it was suggested that celebrities’ usage of social media and its potential for dissemination through various fan interaction channels can be crucial in the public’s responses to public health emergencies such as COVID-19. For example, entertainment artists who are globally recognised possess considerable broadcasting power due to their highly targeted audiences, which span national and ethnic boundaries, political ideologies, and personal convictions (Chang, Pham & Ferrara 2023). Needless to say, social media platforms were essential during the turbulent period of the pandemic and will continue to be in health crises by offering real-time updates to engagement between the authorities and the masses, boosting public health messaging, and encouraging worldwide awareness.

[waterspinachdith]

PUBLIC HEALTH *cough coro cough*

Since the end of 2019, the world has been shaken by the Corona Virus Disease 19 (COVID-19) attack. The Malaysian government has adopted numerous phases of the Movement Manage Order (MCO) 2020 beginning on March 18, 2020, in an effort to control the prevention of COVID-19. In the face of the COVID pandemic-19, which is spreading rapidly, and the implementation of the PKP-PKPB-PKPP, which was executed for the first time in Malaysia, the public is always searching for sources to get the most up-to-date information on the status and news of the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as the most recent Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). People used to rely on traditional sources such as radio and television to acquire information, but technological advancements now put everything at their fingertips through the usage of the internet and communications technology (ICT). The usage of technology such as the Internet, as well as media such as social media, is considered as extremely beneficial in giving up-to-date information. During the isolation or lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of persons accessing virtual (online) content rose over the world. Among the virtual content accessed is the ability to delight yourself and obtain up-to-date information on COVID-19.

In the past year, there have been 128 million more mobile phone users, according to the "Digital 2020 Global Statshot Report" by We Are Social, Hootsuite, and Kepios. This growth in mobile phone users is likely to contribute to an increase in social media use globally. The spreading of fake news and rumours is one of the major issues confronting the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the start of the COVID-19 crisis, the WHO has voiced their concern about the virus pandemic as well as the issue of false information and the dissemination of persistent falsehoods. False information can prevent the responsible party from responding, prevent the public from receiving accurate information, and delay the adoption of measures to combat the outbreak.

The Movement Control Order (MCO) enforced in our country since mid-March last year to curb the spread of COVID-19 has also increased the use of the internet and communication on social media. Various campaigns and reminders are given by relevant agencies such as the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM) about the ethics of using social media, but such campaigns are considered unimportant and ignored by some netizens. Everyone is racing to share information and give opinions without considering the validity of the information. The public is advised to first check the validity of any information regarding the COVID-19 outbreak and the Movement Control Order (MCO) before sharing it on social media to avoid the spread of false news and inaccurate information. People can be upset by fake news. The community is under strain as a result of the scenario as reported in fake news. The existence of prior news has increased the burden of those responsible for determining the veracity of the news and presenting it to the community.

[midnightmadness98]

Covid-19 : Social media became my bestfriend

Public Health is a systematic study of preserving and enhancing the health of the community . In order to achieve public health :- the community will be encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle . The foundation is responsible for identifying , acknowledging and taking action by preventing of an infectious disease .

The global pandemic of Covid-19 became the biggest issue for the past 2 years . Individuals were forced to stay home and was only allowed to leave the house for necessities . During the first wave , some people were thrilled as they were given a chance to rest at home and spend time with their family which I agree how it was the bright side despite the concern but as time past by , it made the community suffer due to health and financial problem .

When everyone was locked up, the only thing we face is that our phones. We had tiktok to keep up updated with new dances and some might post it on Instagram too. Since then, we will always stick to the media to acquire information.

[blameyana]

What happens if we rely too much on social media for public health campaigns?

The use of social media platforms has influenced the awareness of the public positively, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social media is generally a useful tool to disseminate information on public health due to its simplicity. Experts in the health field have taken initiatives to spread awareness on social media platforms. They are called ‘medical influencers’ (Medical influencers: navigating social media as doctors 2021), and from the term itself, you can tell that they are doctors who use their influence on social media platforms to raise awareness of public health.

On TikTok, experts in public health make videos to inform the youth about public health. This enables easier communication between the public and experts as experts can simply reply to their comments or give suggestions based on the knowledge that they have.

Spreading information on social media is inexpensive and not time-consuming, but that comes with a price. Anyone can use social media, including people who don’t have knowledge about health. These people only give their opinions on public health without having any knowledge. As a consequence, misinformation is spread. Suppressing fake news is not as easy as people say it is. People tend to view issues through their own perception and often do not seek confirmation of that information (What is the impact of social media on public health? 2020).

Misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccines was spread. Governments and scientists decided to capitalise on mRNA technology to develop COVID-19 vaccines quickly, as a result, conspiracy theories and additional rumours came with it (Lee et al. 2022). Anti-vaxxers have used misinformation which includes conspiracy theories on vaccines to convince people to not get vaccinated. For instance, anti-vaxxers have spread the (obviously fake) news of COVID-19 vaccines being harmful and toxic. Misinformation results from a lack of knowledge or the misinterpretation of scientific results (Sarukhan 2021).

If people continue to rely on social media without also being aware that not every news is good news, or if people cannot sort facts from lies, it only leads to distrust in the media. People must understand that they should fact-check prior to spreading any kind of news to anyone.

References:

Medical influencers: navigating social media as doctors 2021, The MDU, 9 July, viewed 12 November 2022, <https://www.themdu.com/guidance-and-advice/guides/medical-influencers-navigating-social-media-as-doctors>.

What is the impact of Social Media on Public Health? 2020, MPH Online, viewed 12 November 2022, <https://www.mphonline.org/social-media-and-public-health/>.

Lee, SK, Sun, J, Jang, S & Connelly, S 2022, ‘Misinformation of COVID-19 vaccines and vaccine hesitancy’, Scientific Reports, vol. 12, no. 1, Nature Publishing Group, p. 13681.

Sarukhan, A 2021, Disinformation has no religion: the most common fake news on COVID-19 vaccines - blog, ISGlobal, 17 November, viewed 12 November 2022, <https://www.isglobal.org/en/healthisglobal/-/custom-blog-portlet/los-bulos-no-tienen-religion-las-fake-news-mas-comunes-sobre-las-vacunas-covid-19/3098670/0>.

[saltedeggrobot]

Bringing Mental Health Awareness into Social Media

Social media has generally been used to keep up with people that you genuinely want to keep up with online, be it friends, influencers or just topics that you are interested in. It allows oneself to connect with people that have interests that are in common, and this grows the bond between people that you follow.

Mental health is generally a very important part of someone's health and bringing that awareness is important to ensure stability and balance for everyone to have a strong mental health literacy.

Today, mental health awareness needs more exposure to, not just the younger generation but to the older ones as well. With social media, this allows for a platform for people to share their experiences regarding mental health towards less informed people, combating misinformation being spread online and generally creating platforms where people can exchange experiences with one another that are experiencing the same thing.

But sharing things online also brings about people that are not sensitive and brings out toxic online behaviour. Because everyone online can be anonymous, it sometimes makes people forget behind the screen name you see, another person is talking back to you that is real and not a robot. The mistake of forgetting this sometimes makes people become more critical and rude online thinking that their actions have no consequences and hurting another person in the process. While you don't see this happen all the time, it does occur and becomes a reason poor mental health happens in individuals.

Finally, with social media's help, mental health awareness can be improved by the help of people that can answer common questions people have about it by directing individuals to articles and sources that are factually correct and up to data, therefore, reducing misinformation.

[lmaoitsyuuji]

An apple a day keeps the doctor away!

(What is the future of public health campaigns in a digital age?)

How I feel when I have a slight cough and a dry throat:

Health is wealth

Public health campaigns help spread awareness about diseases and health hazards, which can encourage people to seek medical attention for themselves or others (Team CSG 2024). Public health campaigns are essential in shaping community health outcomes by providing crucial information about prevention and treatment options. By leveraging various media channels, these campaigns effectively reach diverse populations, ensuring that important messages resonate well with different demographics.

Beep.. Entering the digital age.. beep

Over the past two decade, the use of digital media and digital technologies for health campaigns and promotion has grown at an unprecedented rate (Koh et al. 2021, p.171). Digital technologies revolutionize the way public health organisations reach and teach audiences as modern campaigns are increasingly using digital strategies to maximize their influence on health behaviours (Krawiec et al. 2021). Digital health campaigns also make it easier for people to consult with health professionals without having to go to a physical clinic or healthcare facility. The rise of telemedicine and digital communication tools has provided a more convenient and accessible alternative to in-person visits.

Digital platforms have enabled for public health campaigns to reach global audiences, which helps expand access and reduce cost. Social media platforms such as YouTube and Facebook helps target specific audiences. People who do not have easy access to any healthcare can benefit from these platforms and gain vital information about their health. Through informational posts and targeted ads, health organisations can deliver important health messages to individuals in remote areas, where conventional healthcare outreach methods might be limited or less effective. Aside from that, digital health campaigns also reduce cost as traditional public health campaigns such as in-person events often require lots of financial investment. Digital health campaigns can reach millions of people without requiring additional spending on manpower in the process, making it a highly cost-effective strategy as the costs of developing digital tools are much lower compared to traditional public health campaigns (Koh et al. 2021, p. 173).  This just goes to show that digital health campaigns are the new frontier for public health issues.

WHO said WHAT?!

The digital age of rapid access to information has given rise to what is known as an ‘infodemic’. The World Health Organization (WHO) describes ‘infodemic’ as the overwhelming influx of information during an epidemic or disease outbreak, which includes both accurate and inaccurate content circulating across digital and physical environments (Khan 2023). Although the digital age has significantly improved access to vital health information, it has also led to challenges in managing the accuracy of health information.

For example, false information about the Covid-19 pandemic was widely circulated among the public and some would even be promoted by the media or prominent individuals which later allowed conspiracy theories to emerge as well (Zhang et al. 2023). The misinformation and conspiracy theory created false narratives, often fuelled by a mix of fear, mistrust and sensationalism, and contributed to the widespread confusion and resistance to public health measures. Vaccine fear is a predominant public health issue and a similar pattern of misconceptions emerged in response to the introduction of the Covid-19 vaccine and the concerns related to the Covid-19 vaccine reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) included fears about its impact on fertility in women, its potential to alter the human genome and beliefs in a global conspiracy aimed at reducing the world’s population (Caceres et al. 2022).

Take that!

There are several ways to combat misinformation in digital health campaigns. The government and health organizations should educate the public by teaching individuals how to critically examine and evaluate the information they encounter online. They can do so by providing resources on how to recognize misinformation and identify credible source. Besides that, health organizations can also collaborate with trusted celebrities and influencers as they can use their voices and platforms to counter misinformation with clear, scientifically backed messages. Therefore, health organizations should take advantage of this and partner up with trusted voices to avoid the spread of misinformation. Additionally, health professionals could also engage in direct communication with the public and respond to their questions and concerns about any health issues. They should also act quickly and tackle any common misconceptions through digital health campaigns so that the misinformation won’t spread far and wide.

Thoughts

In conclusion, the future of public health campaigns in the digital age holds immense promise, driven by the rapid glorious  evolution of digital technologies and the growing reliance on online platforms for information. Digital health campaigns provide opportunities to reach a wider audience and promote health literacy to the public. Although the rise of digital health campaigns can bring about misinformation, I believe that health organizations can mitigate the risks effectively and harness the full potential of digital tools to improve public health.

(784 words)

References

Caceres, M.M.F, Sosa, J.P, Lawrence, J.A, Sestacovschi, C, Tidd-Johnson, A, Ul Rasool, M.H, Gadamidi, V.K, Ozair, S, Pandav, K, Cuevas-Lou, C, Parrish, M, Rodriguez, I & Fernandes, J.P 2022, The Impact of Misinformation on the Covid-19 pandemic, pp.262-277, National Library of Medicine, viewed 28th November 2024,

< https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9114791/ >

Khan, M 2023, How Infodemiology Shapes Public Health in the Digital Age, News Medical, viewed 28th November 2024,

< https://www.news-medical.net/health/How-Infodemiology-Shapes-Public-Health-in-the-Digital-Age.aspx >

Koh, A, Swanepoel, D.W, Ling, A, Ho, B.L, Tan, S.Y & Lim, J 2021, Digital health promotion: promise and peril, Health Promotion International, Volume 36, Issue Supplement 1, pp.170-180, ResearchGate

Krawiec, RJ, McInerney, J, McGuire, K & Malik, N 2021, The future of public health campaigns, Deloitte Insights, viewed 28th November 2024,

< https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/public-sector/successful-digital-public-health-campaigns.html >

Team CSG 2024, The Importance of Healthcare Awareness Campaigns 2024, CSG, viewed 28th November 2024,

<https://wearecsg.com/blog/importance-healthcare-awareness-campaigns/ >

Zhang, J, Pan, Y, Lin, H, Sun, Z, Wu, P & Tu, J 2023, Infodemic: Challenges and solutions in topic discovery and data process, Archives of Public Health, viewed 28th November 2024

[im-just-noelfid]

Public Health in the Digital Era: Envisioning the Future of Online Campaigns

The Shift to Digital Public Health Campaigns

To begin, the shift to digital public health campaigns marks a significant evolution from traditional methods such as TV, radio, and posters to modern digital platforms including social media, mobile apps, and websites. This transition has been driven by the increasing prevalence of social media and online forums, which serve as powerful tools for health promotion, enabling campaigns to reach broader audiences more effectively. Digital technologies enhance the ability to influence perceptions and behaviors, making public health messaging more impactful than ever before (Krawiec, R., McGuire, K., Mclnerney, J., & Malik, N. 2021). As these digital strategies continue to evolve, they present both opportunities and challenges in effectively engaging communities and promoting health ‌(Canada, P. H. A. of. 2024).

Personalization and Targeted Outreach

Digital public health campaigns have evolved significantly from traditional methods like TV, radio, and posters to modern digital platforms, including social media, mobile apps, and websites. This shift reflects the growing prevalence of social media and online forums as essential tools for health promotion, allowing campaigns to reach specific demographics more effectively through algorithm-driven targeting. By utilizing user data, these platforms can tailor messages to individual needs and preferences, enhancing engagement and impact. As a result, digital strategies are becoming increasingly vital in promoting health awareness and influencing public behavior in today's interconnected world.

The Role of Influencers and Advocates

Not to forget, influencers and advocates also play a crucial role in modern public health campaigns by leveraging trusted personalities to effectively spread health messages. Partnerships with influencers can enhance credibility and reach, as these individuals often have established relationships with their audiences. Additionally, encouraging user-generated content allows audiences to share their personal experiences, further amplifying the campaign's reach and impact. By harnessing the power of social media and the voices of influential figures, public health initiatives can foster a sense of community and engagement, ultimately driving greater awareness and action around important health issues.

Combatting Challenges in the Digital Space

Combatting challenges in the digital space is essential for effective public health campaigns, particularly in addressing misinformation, ensuring digital equity, and maintaining privacy. The spread of health-related myths can undermine public trust, making it crucial to provide accurate and accessible information to counteract these false narratives. Additionally, ensuring that campaigns reach underserved populations is vital, as many individuals lack internet access, which can exacerbate health disparities. Efforts to bridge the digital divide, such as investing in internet infrastructure and promoting digital literacy, are necessary to extend connectivity to remote areas and marginalized communities (Kloza, B. 2023). Furthermore, safeguarding user privacy is paramount to maintaining trust; public health organizations must implement robust measures to protect health data shared online, thereby fostering a safe environment for individuals seeking information and support. By addressing these challenges, public health initiatives can enhance their effectiveness and reach a broader audience.

Lessons from Recent Campaign

Recent public health campaigns offer valuable lessons through both successful initiatives and notable failures. For example, campaigns focused on vaccine awareness during COVID-19 and anti-smoking drives provide insights into effective strategies for engaging the public and promoting health behaviors. These successful campaigns often utilized targeted messaging, partnerships with trusted influencers, and digital platforms to reach diverse audiences. However, they also faced challenges, including backlash and misinformation controversies that highlighted areas for improvement. Learning from these experiences, public health organizations can refine their approaches by developing robust strategies for managing negative responses and proactively addressing misinformation. By analyzing both successes and shortcomings, future campaigns can be better equipped to navigate the complexities of public health communication in an increasingly digital landscape.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are paramount in the development of public health campaigns, particularly in balancing marketing strategies with a sense of responsibility. It is essential to avoid overly commercialized approaches that may undermine the seriousness of health messages and exploit vulnerable populations. Additionally, inclusivity is crucial; campaigns must reflect the diversity of the communities they serve and respect cultural sensitivities to ensure that all individuals feel represented and understood. By prioritizing ethical practices, public health initiatives can foster trust and credibility, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness in promoting health and well-being across varied demographics.

Call to Action Plan

To conclude, stakeholders including governments, tech companies, healthcare professionals, and the public are encouraged to collaborate in creating impactful, inclusive, and forward-thinking digital health campaigns. By working together, they can address the evolving challenges and opportunities in public health communication, ensuring that campaigns are effective and resonate with diverse audiences. This collaborative approach will not only enhance the effectiveness of health initiatives but also provide a comprehensive view of how public health campaigns are evolving in the digital age and what the future may hold.

Krawiec, R., McGuire, K., Mclnerney, J., & Malik, N. (2021, August 18). The future of public health campaigns. Deloitte Insights. https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/public-sector/successful-digital-public-health-campaigns.html

‌Canada, P. H. A. of. (2024, February 14). Defining the role of digital public health in the evolving digital health landscape: policy and practice implications in Canada, HPCDP: Vol 44(2), February 2024. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/reports-publications/health-promotion-chronic-disease-prevention-canada-research-policy-practice/vol-44-no-2-2024/defining-role-digital-public-digital-health-landscape-policy-practice-implications-canada.html

Kloza, B. (2023, February 3). Solutions to the Digital Divide: Moving Toward a More Equitable Future - Connecting the Unconnected. Connecting the Unconnected. https://ctu.ieee.org/blog/2023/02/03/solutions-to-the-digital-divide-moving-toward-a-more-equitable-future/

[jocelynch]

What are the dangers of the reliance of social media for public health campaigns?

Social media has become an essential part of daily life, with 72% of adults and 84% of those aged 18-29 using at least one platform and spending an average of two hours per day online (de Vere Hunt & Linos 2022). Its capacity to reach a vast and diverse audience makes it an effective instrument for communicating vital health messages. Social media can be used in public health campaigns to create awareness, promote healthy behaviours, and effectively reach out to specific demographics. However, there are significant obstacles, including the spread of misinformation, which can mislead individuals and endanger public health activities. False information spreads quickly on social media, frequently reaching more people than true facts because it is emotional or sensational. This blog will look at the risks of using social media for health campaigns, including the risks posed by false information and its impact on health behaviours. It will also cover potential solutions to these difficulties, such as selecting trustworthy communicators, customizing messages to target groups, and effectively combating disinformation through fact-checking and myth-busting strategies.

Gif by Alison Gopnik

One of the most difficult obstacles in using social media for health campaigns is the quick spread of misinformation. Incorrect information can have a major effect on public health habits. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, exposure to erroneous vaccine information resulted in a 6.4% fall in vaccination rates among people who had originally planned to get vaccinated (de Vere Hunt & Linos 2022). The World Health Organization even labelled the outbreak an "infodemic," emphasizing the widespread dissemination of both false and true information. Misinformation travels faster than true news because it is more emotionally charged and uncommon, causing individuals to disseminate it quickly (de Vere Hunt & Linos 2022). To combat this, health campaigns might use myth-busting methods to dispel misleading claims and spread real facts. This strategy should be ongoing, with constant monitoring and real-time adjustments to errors. Research has shown that evaluation frameworks for social media interventions are important for measuring behavior change. Key factors such as exposure, reach, and the level of user engagement (low to medium) are seen as essential in social media health promotion campaigns. The concept map in Figure 1 shows that most studies (65%) used quantitative methods to assess the impact of social media on health behavior, while 35% used a mixed-method approach to evaluate the results (Ghahramani, Courten & Prokofieva 2022).

Figure 1: Methodology approaches used in the studies

Social media sites like Facebook and Instagram provide powerful tools for targeting specific populations with health messaging. Health messages can be personalized based on age, region, and hobbies. For example, public health campaigns can target smokers or promote exercise regimens to people who are interested in fitness. This is especially effective for reaching out to immigrant groups who may be experiencing linguistic problems. Campaigns in Arabic and Russian have successfully increased vaccination appointments among migrants in Germany. However, social media algorithms frequently display ads to individuals who already agree with the content, making it difficult to reach suspicious or hesitant consumers. To combat this, campaigns might adapt messages to specific issues or communities, such as providing content from credible sources to tackle vaccine reluctance.

Celebrities, healthcare experts, and community leaders play important roles in spreading public health messages. Magic Johnson's HIV declaration in 1991, for example, resulted in an upsurge in condom use among Black and Hispanic populations. Social media magnifies their power, allowing trustworthy personalities' messages to reach a larger audience faster. A survey found that 51% trusted health publications from public personalities, compared to 34% from those they distrusted (de Vere Hunt & Linos 2022). Social media also makes it easy to share health messages, allowing them to go viral and increase their reach.

Gif by Mike Miranda

Despite its fast spread, misinformation remains a serious barrier. As a result, the key to successful health campaigns is to verify misinformation, personalize messages to specific audiences, and use trustworthy messengers. The dynamic nature of social media enables continual testing and refining of health messaging. Campaigns can react quickly to audience response, increasing efficacy in real time.

To summarize, while social media is an effective tool for delivering health messages, its reliance on timely and occasionally erroneous information offers considerable hazards. Successful social media public health efforts should remove misconceptions, personalize messaging to specific groups, and use trusted people to boost credibility and participation. With careful planning and effective implementation, social media may be a great tool for boosting public health.

Gif by Hey Gurmeet

(741 words)

Reference list

de Vere Hunt, IJ & Linos, E 2022, ‘Social media for public health: a framework for social media-based public health campaigns (Preprint)’, Journal of Medical Internet Research, vol. 24, no. 12, viewed <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9798262/>.

Ghahramani, A, de Courten, M & Prokofieva, M 2022, ‘The potential of social media in health promotion beyond creating awareness: An integrative review’, BMC Public Health, vol. 22, no. 1, viewed 20 November 2024, <https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-022-14885-0>.

[cheepuppp]

Public Health Campaigns: Hashtags, Challenges, and Communities

Public health and social media go hand-in-hand. Think about it, how many times have you seen campaigns like Movember, the Ice Bucket Challenge, or even COVID-19 hygiene tips pop up on your feed? Social media isn’t just a space for memes and influencers; it’s become a powerful platform for raising awareness, busting stigma, and connecting people around health issues. But like anything online, it’s a double-edged sword. Let’s explore how social media shapes public health campaigns, the good, the bad, and what we can learn from it.

The Power of Going Viral: Hashtags That Change the Game

When it comes to public health, viral campaigns are king. Take the Ice Bucket Challenge, for example. Back in 2014, this simple (and chilly!) campaign raised $115 million for ALS research. People across the globe dumped ice water on themselves, posted videos, and tagged friends to join in. It wasn’t just a trend, it was a masterclass in how social media can turn awareness into action.

Similarly, campaigns like Movember have used humor and creativity to tackle serious issues like men’s mental health and prostate cancer. Movember’s approach, encouraging men to grow mustaches during November combines personal expression with a call to action. According to Burgess et al. (2014), campaigns like these thrive because they tap into social networks, making participation feel fun, communal, and meaningful.

#COVIDRacism and the Role of Social Media During Crises

COVID-19 wasn’t just a health crisis, it was a social one. Alongside the pandemic came a wave of anti-Asian racism. In response, hashtags like #COVIDRacism and #StopAsianHate emerged to fight back. Abidin and Zeng (2020) explain how these movements created virtual “safe spaces” for people to share experiences and find solidarity. Platforms like Subtle Asian Traits played a huge role in amplifying these voices, blending humor, storytelling, and advocacy.

But social media’s role during COVID-19 wasn’t all positive. Nguyen et al. (2020) discuss how the pandemic exposed deep digital inequalities. While some communities used platforms to access vital health information, others were left out due to a lack of resources or internet access. Misinformation also ran rampant, turning platforms into battlegrounds for truth and falsehoods.

Mental Health in the Digital Age

Beyond viral campaigns, social media has become a space for talking about mental health. Hashtags like #Depressiongrams or #ItsOkayToNotBeOkay encourage people to open up about their struggles, breaking the stigma around mental illness. McCosker (2016) explores how tagging depression or sharing personal stories creates visibility, but warns that oversimplifying mental health for clicks can sometimes do more harm than good.

Keiichi Matsuda’s short film Merger also gives us a glimpse into a possible future where mental health and digital tools become inseparable. It raises important questions about privacy and authenticity, are we ready for a world where our innermost struggles are always online?

Personal Reflection

Thinking about public health campaigns, I can’t help but remember how the Ice Bucket Challenge took over my timeline. I didn’t participate, but I was inspired by how something so simple could spark such a huge movement. On the flip side, I’ve seen firsthand how social media can spread misinformation, especially during COVID-19. It’s a reminder that while platforms are powerful, they need to be used responsibly.

One campaign that stuck with me was Movember. Watching my friends grow questionable facial hair for a good cause made me realize how humor and creativity can make serious topics more approachable. It’s campaigns like these that show the best side of social media, bringing people together for a purpose.

Conclusion

Social media has revolutionized public health campaigns, turning hashtags into lifelines and challenges into global phenomena. But it’s not without its flaws. From misinformation to digital inequalities, the challenges are as real as the opportunities.

Still, the potential is undeniable. Campaigns like Movember, #COVIDRacism, and the Ice Bucket Challenge show us how social media can foster connection, inspire action, and build communities around health and wellness. The key is to use these platforms thoughtfully because when they’re done right, they can truly change lives.

References

Abidin, C., & Zeng, J. (2020). Feeling Asian Together: Coping With #COVIDRacism on Subtle Asian Traits. Social Media + Society. https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305120948223

Burgess, J., Cassidy, E., & Light, B. (2014). Deeply superficial Digital Media Engagement? The Case of Twitter and Movember 2013. Presented at AoIR 15, Daegu, Korea. https://spir.aoir.org/ojs/index.php/spir/article/view/8530

McCosker, A. (2016). Digital Mental Health and Visibility: Tagging Depression. In Messaris, P., & Humphreys, L. (Eds.), Digital Media: Transformations in Human Communication (2nd ed.). Peter Lang.

Nguyen, M. H., et al. (2020). Changes in Digital Communication During the COVID-19 Global Pandemic: Implications for Digital Inequality and Future Research. Social Media + Society. https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305120948255

The Ice Bucket Challenge. (2014). Retrieved from ALS Association.

Matsuda, K. (2018). Merger. Vimeo. https://vimeo.com/302028562.

[xuenstrugglestoblog]

From lightning cable to type-c : Using Social Media to Supercharge Public Health Campaigns

Yup. You heard me right. No more of that radio, TV, newspaper nonsense, we're upgrading to that latest iPhone which uses the type-c, fast charge cable. Just kidding, we're actually using social media to boost public health campaigns. Social media is a game-changer for public health campaigns, opening up new ways to reach people especially the chronically online ones.

Now JUST A DISCLAIMER : This essay is gonna sound a little similar to my previous posting but that's not because I'm running out of creative juices. No. I will always have them flowing. However, I'll have to admit that some of my points will be similar since we are using social media to boost something again.

Back to my previous point, health organizations and community groups can get their messages across faster and engage with more diverse groups via socmed. Great! That's like 2 stones and 1 bird! Or is it 2 birds and 1 stone... Plus, creative formats like memes and influencer posts make health topics feel more relatable and relevant. But and but, of course there is a but - using social media effectively required thoughtful strategies, especially when it comes to tackling misinformation and ensuring campaigns actually resonate with the people. We're gonna dive into how social media can be used for impactful public health campaigns, including tips on working with influencers, building supportive communities, making content that's creative and engaging, and all the other good stuff...

1.The Power of Influencers and Memes

I'M BRINGING THE MEMES BACKKKKKK!!!!! That's cause influencer and memes are gold when it comes to boosting the reach of health campaigns. Partnering with influencers who are able to align with a campaign's message can amplify its reach and make the information stick (Kostygina et al. 2020). Influencers have already build the trust and connection with their followers, which is great for public health message that people need to take seriously. For example, Demi Lovato is a known advocate for mental health awareness, and she isn't shy to share that with her 145 million followers on Instagram (Zizzo 2024). When Demi shares health tips or personal experiences, it often feels more authentic and relatable, which makes people more likely to listen and engage with the content (in the form of likes, comments, shares, reposts, etc.)

Now, we talk about the memes. There is absolutely nothing terrible about them (maybe I'm just being biased)- they're easy to share, they make complex health issues feel approachable with a touch of humor, they make the suicidal thoughts go away... however, it's a balancing act. Go too far with humor, the message might get lost. Kostygina et al. (2020) remind us that keeping a sense of authenticity and relatability is key. However, if it's done well, memes and influencer partnerships can spark real great conversations about health in a way that feels fresh and organic.

Now I'm just gonna share a couple memes that tickled my funny bone during the pandemic.

All credit goes to Baltimore City Health Department for their creativity, sarcasm and slander towards anti-vaxxers.

2. Get the Creative Juices Flowing to Boost Engagement

Social media thrives on creativity itself. An analogy that I would give would be trees fighting for sunlight in the rainforest. To stand out among the other trees (other social media accounts), you have to be a little different, a little more... creative. Public health campaigns can take advantage of that creativity by curating content that resonates emotionally with the audience. Ashley & Tuten (2015) highlight the importance of using a mix of content formats- think interactive polls, visually striking infographics, or even videos that people want to watch and share. One way health campaigns can stand out is using user-generated content. This can be done by encouraging people to share into their own health stories using a specially curated hashtag. This can create a real sense of community and make health info feel more intimate and personal. This will definitely help with the reach and it will build engagement that sticks around for a while. As Ashley & Tuten (2015) found, the more a post resonates with people. they more people will engage with it. The outcome will be a health message that makes an impactful difference on the audience.

3. The Group Chat is Texting for More Support

Having things digitalized definitely makes a lot of things easier. Health groups can also be created virtually via social media platforms, and these digital health communities can become a safe space for people to come together and support one another, exchange tips, and learn about health topics in a non-judgmental environment basically like a drug rehab group. Ba & Wang (2013) explained that these groups are able to fulfill needs such as emotional connection, shared understanding, which will help drive up some positive changes with time. Social media makes it easier for users of different backgrounds to join these communities, whether they're dealing with chronic illness, trying to live healthier or just wanting to learn more about health topics (just a side note : this is wonderful because my current obsession is brewing kombucha and I've actually joined kombucha brewing groups on Facebook just to learn more from the aunties). For public health campaigns, joining forces with established health communities or creating targeted groups can be super effective. For example, establishing a cancer recovery rehab group in conjunction with an NGO that supports cancer. Campaigns that understand the value of these spaces often see higher engagement since members are already motivated and looking for support. Ba & Wang (2013) also observed that digital health communities can give people a sense of belonging, which in turn, helps campaigns foster a more sustained interest in healthy behaviour.

4. Turn on Waze Cause It's Time to Navigate Through These Misinformation and Audience Gaps

This point, I have spoken about as well previously, but I am here to address it once more since it's kinda crucial. I think the most common misinformation spread online was during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic where aunties and uncles are spreading misinformation about various cures to covid (such as a certain health minister encouraging us to 'just drink hot water'). With information spreading like wildfire online, since it can be spread with just a couple clicks, it's just as easy for false health tips to reach the gullible users which may undermine public trust in reliable sources. According to Kanchan & Gaidhane (2023), campaigns should be transparent and back up their information with evidence or proven, legitimate, scientific research. Addressing misinformation head-on, maybe even in a Q&A format, can go a long way in building credibility. A great example would be the video posted by WIRED on YouTube, starring Dr. Ken Jeong. Dr. Ken would answer medical questions posted up by users on Twitter and he cleared a lot of health misunderstanding and myths through that simple video.

Aside from misinformation, there might be audience gaps at times as well. Campaigns need to understand their audiences to make sure their messages resonate. Ramanadhan et al. (2013) found that successful community-based organizations pay close attention to what their audiences care about and adjust the content accordingly. This is another great thing about social media- it's great for testing content, so if something isn't engaging people, you can quickly pivot and try a different approach. However, I understand that there are still those out there who have issued with access, not everyone has the digital literacy and tech access to engage with virtual campaigns equally. That's why, a great strategy would be working with the government or even non-profit organizations to help get the message out to those who aren't always online.

OKAY. We're kinda done here.

Social media has made it easier than ever to spread public health messages and connect with diverse audiences. Whether it's teaming up with influences, getting creative with content, or fostering supportive communities, there are a lot of great ways to use social media to it's full potential. However, it's important to still keep a close eye on challenges such as misinformation and make sure the campaigns are inclusive (CAUSE NO ONE GETS LEFT OUT). In the end, the most successful public health campaigns will be the ones that feel authentic, with solid information to back up, and it resonates with people they're trying to reach.

References

Kostygina, G., Tran, H., Binns, S., Szczypka, G., Emery, S., Vallone, D., & Hair, E, 2020, ‘Boosting Health Campaign Reach and Engagement Through Use of Social Media Influencers and Memes’. Social Media + Society, vol. 6 no. 2, viewed 9 November 2024, < https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305120912475 >. 

Ashley, C & Tuten, T 2015, ‘Creative strategies in social media marketing: An exploratory study of branded social content and consumer engagement’, Psychology & Marketing, vol. 32 no. 1, pp. 15–27, viewed 9 November 2024, <https://doi.org/10.1002/mar.20761>. 

Ba, S. and Wang, L 2013, ‘Digital health communities: The effect of their motivation mechanisms’, Decision Support Systems, vol. 55 no. 4, pp.941-947, viewed 9 November 2024, <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dss.2013.01.003>. 

Kanchan, S. and Gaidhane, A 2023, ‘Social Media Role and Its Impact on Public Health: A Narrative Review’, Cureus, vol. 15 no.1, viewed 9 November 2024, <https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.33737?>. Ramanadhan, S., Mendez, S.R., Rao, M. & Viswanath, K 2013, ‘Social media use by community-based organizations conducting health promotion: a content analysis’, BMC public health, vol. 13 no. 1, pp.1-10, viewed 17 November 2023, <https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2458-13-112

Zizzo, M. (2024). 10 Celebrity Advocates Raising Mental Health Awareness - Stigma Free Mental Health Society. [online] Stigma Free Mental Health. Available at: https://stigmafreementalhealth.com/blog/10-celebrity-advocates-raising-mental-health-awareness/.

[motumbtumb]

The Influence of the 'Aesthetic Template' on Body Modification Trends: How Social Media Shapes Our Faces

In recent years, “cosmetic surgery” products have witnessed an exponential increase in demand as aesthetics have become an important aspect of daily life.  The rise in population focusing on aesthetic features has generated promising prospects for the growth of the cosmetic procedure market.

The trend among women towards aesthetic procedures, such as breast augmentation, eyelid surgery, liposuction, tummy tuck, and other surgeries to enhance appearance, is on the rise, leading to high demand. Additionally, preferences are shifting towards procedures inspired by social media influencers.

Standard Face: Idol-Inspired Facial Surgery

First, we can understand the "Standard Face" often refers to an idealized appearance that features symmetrical, well-defined facial traits, such as high cheekbones, full lips, and smooth skin. This look has been popularized by social media influencers, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Celebrities, especially in the entertainment industry, have a significant influence on their fans. They are often viewed as ideal beauty models, leading fans to feel pressured to attain a similar appearance. Their images and videos on social media are frequently edited and curated to showcase a perfect look, creating a challenging standard to achieve.

A 33-year-old musician named Toby Sheldon spent $100,000 (over 2 billion VND) over five years on cosmetic surgery to resemble Justin Bieber. Sheldon underwent Botox injections, hair transplants, and "smile" surgery, among other procedures, to look like Bieber.

Twin brothers Matt and Mike Schlepp spent £15,000 to have their noses, chins, and cheekbones altered to look like movie star Brad Pitt. Their transformation process over two months was documented in an MTV reality show.

Analyze behavior

The Algorithm Factor: How Social Media Rewards the Aesthetic Template

The reason for celebrity look alike surgery is not just about their love for their idols.Many individuals frequently compare themselves to idols or attractive individuals on social media. This can create feelings of inadequacy, leading to dissatisfaction with oneself.The constant presence of meticulously edited images can lead others to believe that these characteristics are the new standard of "beauty," causing them to feel that their natural appearance is not good enough.Not only that, many people change their faces to look like their idols so they can take advantage of it as a basis for personal gain.

Many young Chinese people are willing to undergo plastic surgery to look like celebrities, hoping to quickly become famous so they can sell products online and enter showbiz.

Hà Thừa Hy (born 1993) gained fame on the Chinese reality show Super Girl for resembling Phạm Băng Băng. Since age 15, she has spent 8 million NDT (over 27 billion VND) on cosmetic surgery to achieve this look. Emulating Phạm Băng Băng's style, she often gets mistaken for her and earns significant income through event appearances and live streaming, reportedly making up to $500,000 a month at her peak.

The Real-World Impact: Facial surgery

Cosmetic procedures aimed at achieving a celebrity-like appearance often include various techniques. A nose job can help create a straight or curved nose, depending on the desired style. Jaw contouring is performed to create sharper jawline features, enhancing overall facial structure. Additionally, Botox or filler injections are used to plump the lips and enhance the cheekbones, giving a more defined look. Finally, eye surgeries, such as double eyelid surgery or brow lifting, can further refine the appearance, helping individuals achieve their ideal aesthetic.Individuals undergoing surgery must have a strong mental attitude.

They may not only go through a single procedure but could also face hundreds of different minor and major surgeries.

The Health Dilemma: surgical risks, post operative health

HEALTH: After cosmetic surgery, patients face potential infections if the surgical site is not cared for properly, and some may develop scarring, which can be raised or uneven. There’s also a risk of adverse reactions to anesthesia, and many experience pain and discomfort in the operated area, with soreness or swelling lasting from a few days to several weeks. Proper post-operative care is essential to minimize these risks.

Psychological Challenges: Many patients experience dissatisfaction with the results if their expectations are not met. This can lead to feelings of depression or anxiety, particularly due to the pressure to maintain their new appearance. Additionally, individuals may struggle to accept their new image, which can significantly impact their self-confidence. It is essential for patients to seek support and guidance during this adjustment period to foster a positive self-image.

Embracing Individuality: Rethinking Beauty Standards

The influence of social media on body modification trends cannot be overstated. The 'Aesthetic Template' propagated by influencers and celebrities sets a high bar for beauty standards, leading many individuals to pursue cosmetic procedures in an attempt to conform. While these surgeries can enhance physical appearance, they come with significant risks and psychological challenges. As society continues to evolve in its perception of beauty, it is crucial to foster a more inclusive understanding of aesthetics that values individuality over conformity to idealized standards. Encouraging open discussions about the implications of cosmetic surgery and promoting mental health support can help mitigate the negative effects associated with the pursuit of an idealized appearance.

References

staff, H. R. (2013, October 21). Justin Bieber fan spends $100,000 on surgery to resemble the singer. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/entertainment/justin-bieber-fan-spends-100-000-surgery-resemble-singer-8C11431266

Tiga. (2024, April 19). Twins invest £15,000 to transform into Brad Pitt lookalikes. DailyWrap. https://dailywrap.uk/twins-invest-ps15-000-to-transform-into-brad-pitt-lookalikes,7018630501684865a

[silas-ng-dc-blog]

Can Social Media Be Used To Spread Health Awareness?

In 2024, it can be said that everyone is familiar with the words “social media”, a term synchronous with dopamine-seeking Internet users that scroll endlessly on their phones all day with their eyes glued to an LED screen. Though this may seem worrisome, which it is, social media has several upsides to it that make the aforementioned issue seem justifiable.

Specifically, social media can be used to spread health awareness to its users. The infamous Ice Bucket challenge in 2014 was started to promote awareness of the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease and also showcases the unmatched potential social media wields when it comes to educating the public on urgent issues currently plaguing in the world.

Mohammed W. et. al. (2021) said that social media holds significant potential for sharing information about healthy behaviors, disease prevention, treatment, management, and care.

Additionally, health educators have leveraged social media to establish support groups, advocate for health equity among disadvantaged communities, engage with partners, and dispel misinformation on public health issues. As technology advances and social media evolves, it is becoming a powerful tool for raising awareness, educating on socially relevant topics, and conducting activities, online courses, and classes more efficiently than traditional face-to-face interactions (Latha K. et. al, 2020). Latha K. et. al. (2020) continues in their report saying that social media facilitates the connection of people, leading to increased exchange of information regarding health.

Continuing from the aforementioned Ice Bucket challenge are other challenges with similar aims of spreading health awareness to social media users. Another example is the No Make-Up Selfie challenge whose main objective was to spread cancer awareness by having women post selfies where they were not wearing make-up. BC NEWS (2014) stated that the trend grew on its own and was not started by cancer charities or organizations. Additionally, we have “Movember”, which is a trend where in every November, men were challenged to grow mustaches and both men and women were urged to be more physically active to raise awareness about men’s mental issues. Movember began in Australia in 2003 to raise awareness about men’s health issues. By 2004, it became an official charity, with all proceeds directed to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (Manulife Malaysia).

However, social media users should still be wary of any health-related information they come across on the internet or the various applications they use. The spread of health misinformation is rampant in the digital world, and many have already believed its false claims. Chou W. Y. S. et. al. (2020) defines health misinformation as any health-related statement of fact that is inaccurate according to current scientific consensus.  Monica L. W. (2024) wrote that vaccines are the leading subject of misleading health information with some myths being infertility after vaccination and supposed cause of autism related to vaccines. Not surprisingly, these hoaxes have led to the demise of many people, as seen in the recent COVID-19 pandemic, there was widespread confusion between people who opposed vaccination and those who supported it. According to the data from Brown University School of Public Health, approximately 319,000 COVID-19 deaths in the United States between January 2021 and April 2022 could have been prevented if those individuals had been vaccinated (Monica L. W., 2024).

The myriad of false information on the internet and social media alike have grown to immeasurable proportions. With at least 80% of online people using the internet for health-related topics, an NBC News analysis has raised concerns about what type of information these people may have run into (Brandy Z., 2019). Brandy (2019) continues in her article writing that cancer is the most common topic of health misinformation, with viral articles advocating unverified cancer cures accounting for one-third of their list.

Having said all this, it seems obvious that the cons far outweigh the pros in this scenario. The damage that health misinformation on the internet has done is severe and long lasting, forcing users to think twice about every article or post they come across that is related to health. However, I still believe that social media can be used to spread health awareness effectively. With the right support, audience, and a solid foundation built through trust and results, individuals and organizations alike can utilize the vast power of social media to bring health education to the masses.

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References:

Brandy Z., 29th December 2019, Social media hosted a lot of fake health news this year. Here’s what went most viral, NBC News, viewed 24th October 2024, https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/social-media-hosted-lot-fake-health-news-year-here-s-n1107466

Chou W. Y. S., Gaysynsky A., Capella J. N., October 2020, Where We Go From Here: Health Misinformation on Social Media, PubMed Central, viewed 24th October 2024, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7532328/

Latha K., Meena K. S., Pravitha M. R., Dasgupta M., Chaturvedi S. K., 28th May 2020, Effective use of social media platforms for promotion of mental health awareness, PubMed Central, viewed 23rd October 2024, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7325786/

Manulife Malaysia, Get Ready for Movember because there’s #nothingtofear, Manulife, viewed 23rd October 2024, https://www.manulife.com.my/en/individual/insights/get-ready-for-movember-because-nothing-to-fear.html

Mohammed W., Alanzi T., Alanezi F., Alhodaib H., AlShammari M., 2021, Usage of social media for health awareness purposes among health educators and students in Saudi Arabia, Elsevier, viewed 23rd October 2024,    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352914821000435\

Monica L. W., 9th February 2024, POV: Health Misinformation Is Rampant on Social Media, BU Today, viewed 24th October 2024, https://www.bu.edu/articles/2024/health-misinformation-rampant-on-social-media/

Roy R. & Malloy J., 8th May 2023, Evolving Role of Social Media in Health Promotion, Intechopen, viewed 23rd October 2024, https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/87491

BBC NEWS, 22nd March 2014, Why the ‘no make-up selfies’ campaign raised £2m, BBC NEWS, viewed 23rd October 2024, https://www.bbc.com/news/health-26683817

[tramngo]

Beyond Tradition: Exploring Body Modification in East Asian Cultures

Body modification practices in East Asia, encompassing traditional methods such as tattooing and modern cosmetic surgery, reveal a rich tapestry of cultural, social, and economic influences. Understanding these practices through a process model helps elucidate the complex interplay of historical traditions, technological advancements, and societal norms. By applying the production of culture framework, we can unravel the complexities involved in creating, distributing, and consuming these forms of body modifications in East Asia.

The Production of Culture Framework 

As discussed by Griswold (2013) and Peterson & Anand (2004), the production of culture framework focuses on the processes involved in creating, distributing, and consuming cultural forms. This approach emphasizes examining what people do rather than what they say, situating body modifications as cultural products shaped by social processes. It is particularly illuminating when examining body modifications in East Asia, where historical traditions intersect with contemporary influences.

Figure 1. Process-based framework for the analysis of body modification

Production: The Creation of Body Modifications

Historical Practices Traditional body modification practices in East Asia were deeply ingrained in cultural and social contexts. Practices such as tattooing, tooth blackening, and skull shaping served multiple purposes beyond mere decoration(Cheng 2013). These practices were personal expressions and communal rituals that reinforced social bonds and cultural identity.

Modern Practices In the 20th century, East Asia witnessed a significant shift towards cosmetic surgeries to enhance natural beauty. Procedures like double-eyelid surgery and augmentation rhinoplasty gained popularity, particularly in countries like South Korea and Japan. These surgeries often focus on subtle alterations perceived as enhancing natural features, reflecting evolving aesthetic preferences influenced by technological advancements (Holliday & Elfving-Hwang 2012).

Distribution: The Spread and Accessibility of Body Modifications

Traditional Methods Traditional body modification methods were traditionally localized and passed down through generations within specific cultural groups. These practices were closely tied to cultural rituals and societal roles, often performed by specialized practitioners within the community. They played a crucial role in maintaining cultural identity and social cohesion.

Modern Distribution The globalization of cosmetic surgery has dramatically transformed the accessibility and prevalence of body modifications in East Asia. Countries like South Korea have emerged as global leaders in cosmetic procedures, attracting a diverse clientele from around the world. This globalization is fueled by advancements in medical technology and amplified through media channels and social platforms, which disseminate beauty standards and trends internationally (Holliday & Elfving-Hwang 2012).

Consumption: The Adoption and Interpretation of Body Modifications

Cultural Significance Body modifications in East Asia are deeply embedded in cultural norms and societal expectations. For example, the preference for fair skin has historical roots and is associated with beauty and social status. This has led to widespread use of skin-whitening products and cosmetic procedures that reflect broader cultural ideals shaped by traditional aesthetics and contemporary media influences (Ashikari 2005).

Societal Pressure Modern body modification practices in East Asia are significantly influenced by societal pressures, including the competitive job market and social media influence. In South Korea, for instance, cosmetic surgery is often viewed as a means to enhance professional and personal success, creating a cultural environment where such procedures are normalized and even expected (Holliday & Elfving-Hwang 2012).

Body modification in East Asia presents a nuanced blend of tradition and innovation, shaped by historical legacies, technological advancements, and societal pressures. The application of a process model helps elucidate how these practices evolve over time, influenced by cultural values and global trends. As East Asia continues to navigate modernity and cultural identity, the meanings and manifestations of body modification will undoubtedly continue to evolve.

As these practices transcend borders, propelled by technological advancements and global connectivity, they embody a dynamic fusion of tradition and innovation. They remind us that the quest for beauty and identity is not merely skin-deep but a reflection of societies evolving amidst the currents of history and modernity

Reference list

Ashikari, M 2005, ‘Cultivating Japanese Whiteness’, Journal of Material Culture, vol. 10, no. 1, pp. 73–91.

Brown, JK 1963, ‘A Cross-Cultural Study of Female Initiation Rites’, American Anthropologist, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 837–853.

Griswold, W 2013, ‘Cultures and Societies in a Changing World’, SAGE Knowledge, 4th edn, Thousand Oaks, California, viewed <https://sk.sagepub.com/books/cultures-and-societies-in-a-changing-world-4e>.

Holliday, R & Elfving-Hwang, J 2012, ‘Gender, Globalization and Aesthetic Surgery in South Korea’, Body & Society, vol. 18, no. 2, pp. 58–81.

Jones, M 2019, ‘Skintight: An Anatomy of Cosmetic Surgery’, Academia.edu, viewed 1 December 2019, <https://www.academia.edu/222157/Skintight_An_Anatomy_of_Cosmetic_Surgery>.

Sanders, CR 1982, ‘Structural and Interactional Features of Popular Culture Production: An Introduction to the Production of Culture Perspective’, The Journal of Popular Culture, vol. 16, no. 2, pp. 66–74.

Spillman, L 2005, ‘Book Review: Cultures and Societies in a Changing World’, Teaching Sociology, vol. 33, no. 1, pp. 111–112.