Social Media Influence, Role, Challenges, and Effect on Medicine

Abstract

Social media has grown exponentially as an open, social platform for communication and information sharing. By April 2020, there were 3.81 billion active users, fueled by increased internet and mobile phone access. A notable aspect of these platforms is their potential in public health initiatives, reaching large audiences and offering direct messaging capabilities. Social networks often exhibit higher engagement and retention rates than traditional web-based approaches, and their interactive nature may have a more significant impact. Social media has been utilized for healthrelated interventions, public health campaigns, medical education, disease outbreak tracking, and health research. It facilitates cost-effective, two-way communication between healthcare professionals and patients, enhancing current medical practices. However, the use of technologies and eHealth applications presents challenges, including establishing trust, adhering to regulations, and curating optimal content. The emotional content of user-generated information, especially during health crises, raises concerns about misinformation, stigma, and mental health issues such as cyberbullying and depression. The misuse of social media can harm personal relationships and reputations. In medical contexts, it requires careful handling of information accuracy and accessibility. Issues with compliance, trust, and patient privacy have impacted doctor-patient relationships. The development of standard protocols for health information dissemination and understanding personal health data usage in various cultural and social contexts remains a key area for further research and exploration.