SOCIAL MEDIA USE AMONG PARENTS OF FOOD ALLERGIC CHILDREN

Abstract

<h3>Introduction</h3> Social media influences medical decision making in various ways. This study aimed to characterize how parents of food-allergic children utilize online resources. <h3>Methods</h3> Caregivers of food allergic children answered an anonymous survey during a follow-up visit with their allergist. Identical surveys were distributed at two separate pediatric academic medical centers. <h3>Results</h3> Among 145 respondents, 74% use online searches at least weekly for food allergy information, but <25% use social media in this manner. The most common reasons for using social media were food allergy support groups and tips for school/travel. Convenience (80%), ease of information (77%), and quick answers (75%) were the most common reasons for online searches. Forty-five percent never, and 41% occasionally, follow recommendations found on social media. Professional organizations (65%) and allergist accounts (58%) were deemed more trustworthy than other parents (23%) and celebrities (6%). Forty-three percent of parents never discuss information found on social media with their child's allergist. Sixteen percent report increased anxiety directly from social media and 14% stopped their engagement. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Parents of food-allergic children are using online searches and social media to find information related to food allergies, but don't always discuss this with their child's allergist. Parents report variable trust of information found online. Allergists can assist caregivers of food- allergic children by proactively discussing social media and online searches during office visits.