Social Media Outreach Research Articles

Strategies to Minimize Selection Bias in Digital Population-Based Studies in Sport and Health Sciences: Methodological and Empirical Insights from the COMO Study

Objectives: Population-based surveys increasingly face challenges of declining response rates and selective participation, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. This article presents the COMO study’s design and sampling approach and discusses strategies to minimize selection bias in digital health surveys, focusing on participation enhancement, response rates, and sample composition from the first survey wave of the COMO Study. Methods: The COMO study is a nationwide, prospective panel survey with three annual online waves (2023–2025). In the first wave (COMO1), a probability-based sample of 35,157 families with children aged 4–17 was recruited using a two-stage register-based sampling procedure. Participation was encouraged via a multimodal communication strategy including postal invitations, email reminders, non-monetary incentives, and social media outreach. Weighting procedures were developed based on design weights and calibration to national micro- census benchmarks. Results: A total of 6,097 families submitted at least one complete questionnaire, corresponding to a 17.3% overall participation. The final analytical sample with full parent and child data comprised 5,240 families (15.0%). Response behavior varied by age, gender, and parental education as one proxy of socio economic status (SES), with adolescents, boys, and lower-educational households underrepresented. Re- minder strategies boosted participation, particularly in early stages. A weighting procedures was developed to corrected key demographic imbalances. Qualitative analyses of 50 inquiries revealed technical, communicative, and emotional barriers, including privacy concerns and pandemic-related distress. Conclusions: The COMO study demonstrates that targeted reminders, inclusive materials, and post-survey weighting can reduce—but not fully eliminate—selection bias. Findings underscore the need for participatory, equity-oriented , incentives designs to improve repre- sentativeness in health research, especially in underserved populations.

Comparative Analysis of Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment Information on Popular Social Media Platforms

Introduction:With the rise of social media as a source for health information, there is concern about the spread of unregulated, potentially misleading content. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of knee osteoarthritis (OA) treatment information on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram platforms where patients often seek medical advice.Methods:TikTok videos, Instagram posts, and YouTube videos focusing on knee OA treatment and meeting specific engagement thresholds were identified using a standardized search. Six reviewers, including orthopaedic faculty and residents, assessed the content's accuracy and reliability using a 10-question Social Media Outreach Content Assessment & Review Tool (SOCART), adapted from the DISCERN instrument. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance, linear regression, and mixed methods.Results:The study reviewed 130 social media posts (YouTube: 30, TikTok: 50, Instagram: 50). YouTube had the highest median number of followers/subscribers, whereas TikTok had the most likes/day and comments/day. Most TikTok (66.7%) and Instagram (92.0%) content creators were from private practices, whereas YouTube creators were mainly affiliated with academic institutions (40.0%). YouTube scored the highest in SOCART assessments (32.86 ± 0.89/50), markedly outperforming Instagram (21.30 ± 0.69/50) and TikTok (20.34 ± 0.87/50; P < 0.001). Content from academic institutions scored higher than that from nonacademic sources (28.04 ± 1.05 vs. 21.77 ± 0.859, P = 0.014).Conclusion:YouTube's high ratings in all SOCART instrument categories suggest that it presents higher-quality information about knee OA treatments relative to Instagram and TikTok. However, YouTube content was still found to be inaccurate and unreliable, making it unsatisfactory for dissemination of important health information. In addition, despite having the lowest SOCART scores, TikTok received the most engagement. This study highlights two important findings: social media presents a risk for patient misinformation when seeking medical advice, and it creates opportunities for physicians to connect with patients using platforms with higher user engagement. Physicians and medical societies can use this information during educational content creation to inform platform choice and dissemination strategies.

Development of prediction models for screening depression and anxiety using smartphone and wearable-based digital phenotyping: protocol for the Smartphone and Wearable Assessment for Real-Time Screening of Depression and Anxiety (SWARTS-DA) observational study in Korea

IntroductionDepression and anxiety are highly prevalent mental health conditions that significantly affect quality of life and cause societal burdens. However, their detection and diagnosis rates remain low owing to the limitations of the current screening methods. With rapid technological advancements and the proliferation of consumer-grade wearable devices and smartphones, their integration into digital phenotyping research has enabled the unobtrusive screening for depression and anxiety in natural settings. The Smartphone and Wearable Assessment for Real-Time Screening of Depression and Anxiety study aims to develop prediction algorithms to identify individuals at risk for depressive and anxiety disorders, as well as those with mild-to-severe levels of either condition or both. By collecting comprehensive data using smartphones and smartwatches, this study aims to facilitate the translation of artificial intelligence-based early detection research into clinical impact, thereby potentially enhancing patient care through more accurate and timely interventions.Methods and analysisThis cross-sectional observational study will enrol up to 2500 participants (at least 1000) aged 19-59 years from South Korea via social media outreach and clinical referrals. The eligible participants must use a compatible smartphone. Each participant will be followed up for 4 weeks. Data will be collected using a custom-developed smartphone application called PixelMood. Active data collection will include daily, weekly and monthly self-report questionnaires incorporating validated scales, such as the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7. Passive data from smartphones include information on physical activity, location, ambient light and smartphone usage patterns. Optionally, participants using the Apple Watch or Galaxy Watch devices can provide additional data on physiological responses and sleep health. The primary outcome will be the development of machine-learning algorithms to predict depression and anxiety based on these digital biomarkers. We will employ various machine-learning techniques, including random forest, support vector machine and deep-learning models. The secondary outcomes will include the association between digital biomarkers and clinical measures, and the feasibility and acceptability of data collection methods. Various features characterising mobile usage behaviours, physical/social activity, sleep patterns, resting physiological states and circadian rhythms will be exploited to serve as potential digital phenotyping markers. Advanced machine-learning and deep-learning techniques will be applied to multimodal data for model generation.Ethics and disseminationThis study protocol was reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Korea University Anam Hospital (approval number: 2023AN0506). The results of this study will be disseminated via multiple channels. The findings will be presented at local, national and international conferences in relevant fields, such as psychiatry, psychology and digital health. Manuscripts detailing the study results will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals for publication.Trial registration numberThe present study was registered with the Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS, https://cris.nih.go.kr; identifier: KCT0009183).

An Exploratory Survey-Based Evaluation of Primary Care Providers' Knowledge and Diagnosis of Neglected Tropical Diseases in Texas.

The purpose of this survey is to determine the current level of neglected tropical disease (NTD) knowledge among primary care providers (PCPs), determine the ability of Texas PCPs to identify and diagnose a patient with an NTD, and assess the current knowledge of and identify barriers to NTD reporting mandates and procedures by Texas PCPs. As global temperatures increase, Texas'geographic outlook continues to change, causing vectors of NTDs to widen their endemic zones. Furthermore, PCPs can range from nurse practitioners to physicians, with varying representations depending on location and availability. As such, it is pertinent to understand the current knowledge gaps of NTDs, their clinical presentation, and the proper diagnostic tools. From February 2024 to July 2024, a 23-question Qualtrics survey (Qualtrics, Provo, UT) was distributed via external and social media outreach, targeting primary health providers, including physicians (Doctor of Medicine/Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, DO), physician assistants, and nurse practitioners, in any Texas healthcare setting. Questions inquired about knowledge regarding NTDs, appropriate diagnostic tests, and knowledge and attitudes toward reporting the disease in the state of Texas. A total of 21 survey responses were obtained, with nine being excluded due to incompletion. The majority of survey respondents were DOs (58.3%), practiced family medicine (41.7%), and practiced in Bexar County (58.3%), with an estimated average of 11 years of practice experience. As defined by the World Health Organization, 58.3% of respondents reported never having been diagnosed with an NTD. Seventy-five percent of respondents were aware of the proper reporting requirements outlined in Texas Administrative Code Chapter 97, Title 25. However, 50% needed to be made aware of the reportable disease list and the required timeline for reporting; 66.7% of respondents cited knowledge of the disease as the main barrier to incomplete reporting. This study demonstrates that only a few providers in Texas, namely Bexar County, could accurately identify NTD diagnostic tests, which may highlight the lack of knowledge of NTD evaluation. Due to the nature of vector-transmitted NTDs, it is imperative to explore widespread educational methods for providers. Expanding access to online reporting platforms for outpatient providers is essential to mitigate barriers and streamline the process. This study was severely limited by selection bias, small sample size, generalizability, and geographic representation, andthusserves as a preliminary study to inform future research.

Effective Strategies for Promoting Ayurvedic Medicines in the Healthcare Market

Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient system of natural healing deeply embedded in Indian tradition, is gaining significant global traction for its holistic and preventive approach to health. However, despite its rising popularity, Ayurvedic products face several obstacles in the healthcare sector, such as strict regulatory frameworks, insufficient scientific research, competition from mainstream allopathic treatments, and limited public awareness. This study seeks to identify and assess effective strategies for advancing the promotion of Ayurvedic medicines through the use of modern marketing practices, adherence to regulatory standards, and enhanced consumer education. The research highlights the influence of digital marketing tools, social media outreach, and influencer marketing in boosting the visibility and trustworthiness of Ayurvedic brands. It also investigates the role of collaborations with medical professionals and institutions in building consumer confidence and acceptance. Emphasis is placed on the development of scientifically supported products, transparent labeling, and alignment with global healthcare standards as essential steps to address consumer doubts and improve credibility. Moreover, the paper underscores the necessity of revamping branding strategies by incorporating visually appealing packaging, clear messaging of product advantages, and demographically targeted promotional activities. The use of online platforms and mobile applications is also recognized as vital for increasing product accessibility and expanding market reach. By blending time-honored Ayurvedic principles with modern business and marketing techniques, this research delivers practical recommendations for industry stakeholders, including businesses, regulatory bodies, and healthcare providers, aiming to enhance the market impact of Ayurvedic medicines. The findings contribute meaningfully to ongoing discussions on the integration of alternative medicine into mainstream healthcare and present a roadmap for fostering sustainable growth and broader acceptance of Ayurvedic solutions in today's competitive medical landscape.

Monitoring career impact and satisfaction in a graduate program in dentistry.

The assessment of student outcomes is essential for monitoring the quality of graduate programs in healthcare sciences. As such, this study focused on developing a self-employed questionnaire that allowed for the evaluation of elements focused on career impact and levels of satisfaction regarding graduate program education. Following, this instrument was utilized in a cross-sectional study design with alumni that had obtained their degree (MSc or PhD) over a 25-year span (1995-2020) from a graduate program in dentistry located in Brazil. The employed instrument comprised a total of 43 questions presenting a mix of both close and open-ended questions coupled with 5-point Likert scales. The questionnaire was hosted online and a total of 528 alumni were invited to participate through e-mail and social media outreach. 376 alumni answered the questionnaire (71.2% response rate). The majority were female (69.9%), and with a MSc (58.5%). Levels of satisfaction towards the program as well the impact in career and life were higher in alumni that had obtained a PhD degree compared to MSc. After obtaining the degree, an increase in involvement in teaching/research positions (3.4% vs 21.5%, p < 001) and a decrease in unemployment (21.9% vs 2.1%, p < 001) were observed. The highest levels of impact were observed regarding the achievement of the professional goals as nearly 90% of the population agreed with this statement. This study highlighted the creation and employment of an assessment tool that can be utilized to monitor the perceptions of student outcomes. Among the findings, a decrease in unemployment and a high degree of career impact and satisfaction were observed in the population of this study. Moving forward, it is essential that monitoring educational outcomes remains a priority worldwide.

Co-Designing Priority Components of an mHealth Intervention to Enhance Follow-Up Care in Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer and Health Care Providers: Qualitative Descriptive Study

BackgroundSurvivors of childhood cancer are at risk of medical, psychological, and social late effects. To screen for their risks, receipt of consistent, cancer-specific follow-up care is crucial. However, <50% of survivors attend their aftercare, and only 35% of them recognize that they could have a serious health problem. The use of mobile health (mHealth) is a promising form of intervention to educate, connect, and empower survivors of childhood cancer on the importance of follow-up care.ObjectiveThis study aimed to use co-design to identify the priority components to include in an mHealth intervention with young adult (aged between 18 and 39 years) survivors of childhood cancer and health care providers.MethodsThis study was conducted between January and November 2022 in Canada and used patient-oriented research methods. Participants were recruited through local or provincial long-term follow-up clinics, using convenience sampling from patient partners who assisted in recruiting survivors across geographical areas in western, central, and eastern Canada, and social media outreach (X, formally known as Twitter; Facebook; and Instagram). Qualitative descriptive data (focus group interviews) from survivors of childhood cancer and health care providers (individual interviews) were gathered. We analyzed the collected data using reflexive thematic analysis and verified it through member checking techniques through an online community engagement event.ResultsWe conducted with patient partners 5 online (Zoom) focus groups with 22 survivors of childhood cancer (mean age 29.19, SD 4.78 y). We conducted individual telephone interviews with 7 health care providers. Participants identified five priority areas to be included in an mHealth intervention: (1) connections, (2) education and information, (3) engagement, (4) personalization, and (5) resources. Results were shared with and validated by survivors of childhood cancer, their families, health care providers, and academic researchers as part of a community engagement event. Small and large group discussions were facilitated to allow participants to review and discuss the accuracy of the themes derived regarding the core components to be included in mHealth. A graphic recording artist visually captured key ideas from the event. A subset of the participants also completed a web-based satisfaction survey, and responses indicated that the community engagement event was generally well received.ConclusionsResults from this study have provided the necessary foundation to progress in intervention development. The next step of this multiphased project is to build an innovative and accessible mHealth intervention prototype that is based on the identified core components and is grounded in an established conceptual framework for co-design of mHealth.

Abstract 4021: Science, prevention, and fun: The educational revolution of the project Cancer School

Abstract Introduction: Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, necessitating innovative strategies to enhance public understanding of its biology, risk factors, and prevention. The Cancer School project is part of the extension program “Laboratório de Educação Científica e Popularização da Ciência (LECPOP) from the State University of Goiás and seeks to bridge this gap by integrating science communication with educational tools that present complex topics like mutations and cancer in an accessible and engaging way. Leveraging social media (@cancerschooloficial) as a dissemination platform, the initiative has amassed over 10, 000 followers and achieves consistent engagement through interactive posts, stories, and videos, fostering a virtual community for cancer education. Methods: The project developed two essential educational tools: the Cromocel booklet and a board game. Cromocel features an engaging narrative led by characters Cromo, Alê, and Karcin to introduce concepts such as chromosome structure, mutations, and cancer progression. The board game, designed in the shape of a chromosome, includes themes like cancer biology, risk factors, and prevention. The development process involved 1) Defining educational objectives, 2) Conducting a literature review, 3) Designing prototypes, 4) Writing a question-and-answer script, and 5) Establishing gameplay rules. Both tools were piloted at the XIV National Research Meeting in Science Education (2023) in Caldas Novas, Goiás. Participants were invited to engage with the tools at an interactive stand and complete a short survey assessing the pedagogical effectiveness, engagement, and usability. Results: The pilot study included 20 participants: 2 K-12 students, five teachers, and 13 undergraduates. All participants reported enjoying the tools, with 70% identifying “prevention” as the most straightforward concept to understand, likely due to their relevance to everyday life. The project's social media presence amplified these efforts, with posts about the educational tools achieving an average engagement rate of 15%, demonstrating strong interest from a broad audience. Followers frequently interacted with content, asking questions and sharing posts, further expanding the initiative's reach. Conclusion: The Cancer School project demonstrates the potential of combining traditional educational tools with digital engagement to promote cancer literacy. The initiative successfully enhances public understanding of cancer biology and prevention strategies by integrating creative methodologies like booklets and games with social media outreach. These results highlight the value of active learning and digital platforms in science communication, offering a scalable model for addressing public health challenges. Citation Format: Altair Filho M. Souza, Talita Aguiar, Andreia Juliana Rodrigues Caldeira. Science, prevention, and fun: The educational revolution of the project Cancer School [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 4021.

Safe Listening Beliefs, Attitudes, and Practices Among Gamers and Esports Participants: International Web-Based Survey

BackgroundThe global rise of video gaming and esports has raised significant concerns about hearing loss due to loud sound exposure. While these activities provide entertainment and have applications in health care, the auditory health risks and behavioral factors influencing listening habits among gamers remain underexplored. Research is needed to develop tailored interventions that address the unique barriers, attitudes, and beliefs of gamers and esports participants, promoting safer listening practices and minimizing auditory health risks.ObjectiveThis study aimed to explore listening behaviors, attitudes, and awareness regarding hearing health risks among video gamers and esports participants. The findings are intended to guide the design and implementation of technological features that encourage safer listening practices, in alignment with the World Health Organization’s Safe Listening initiative.MethodsAn open web-based survey was conducted from September 2022 to January 2023, targeting video gamers and esports enthusiasts. Participants were recruited via World Health Organization social media platforms and outreach to stakeholders. The survey assessed gaming behaviors, listening habits, awareness about hearing health, beliefs, readiness to change listening behaviors, and communication preferences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regression.ResultsA total of 488 responses were collected, with 67.2% (n=328) of participants identifying as male, and 56.4% (n=275) having a college degree or higher. Of the respondents, 90.8% (n=443) were actively engaged in video gaming, while 54.9% (n=268) viewed esports, and 13.9% (n=68) participated in esports events. Notably, 24.8% (n=110) of gamers, 18.3% (n=49) of esports viewers, and 37.1% (n=23) of esports players reported using high or very high volume settings. Despite around half of the participants experiencing symptoms indicative of hearing damage (eg, ringing in the ears), only 34.3% (n=152) of gamers, 35.8% (n=92) of esports players, and 39.7% (n=27) of esports viewers reported taking sound breaks every hour. The study identified a balanced distribution across readiness-to-change stages, with 30.3% (n=148) in the precontemplation stage, 35.3% (n=173) in the contemplation stage, and 34.2% (n=167) in the action stage. Factors such as perceived susceptibility to hearing loss, perceived benefits of preventive action, and self-efficacy significantly influenced readiness to change. Communication preferences indicated that 51% (n=249) of participants were interested in receiving more information on hearing health, with health care professionals and governmental agencies being the most trusted sources.ConclusionsThe findings highlight an urgent need for interventions to promote safe listening practices among gamers, emphasizing a gap between awareness and preventive action. The integration of safe listening features into video games and esports platforms, along with targeted communication strategies, can enhance auditory health awareness and protective behaviors. Future research should evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions to ensure comprehensive auditory health protection in the digital entertainment sector.

Developing an Effective Marketing Strategy for Traditional Herbal Medicine: A Strategic Approach Based on Qualitative Insights

Traditional herbal medicine businesses often face significant challenges in effectively reaching their target markets, particularly due to limitations in marketing capabilities. This study investigates the marketing strategies employed by a traditional herbal medicine enterprise that has operated for seven years but continues to experience limited market penetration and promotional effectiveness. The research aims to identify the current marketing practices and explore strategic approaches to enhance product appeal and expand consumer reach across diverse demographic groups. Employing a qualitative descriptive method, data were collected through in-depth interviews and field observations involving nine informants, including the business owner, employees, and consumers. Data analysis was conducted through the stages of data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing/verification. The findings reveal that the enterprise's marketing strategy comprises consumer segmentation, product development, pricing, distribution, and promotional activities. The primary customer segment ranges from 25 to 50 years of age, typically with a habitual consumption of herbal medicine. The business emphasizes product variety, practical and hygienic packaging, and quality assurance. Pricing strategies are aligned with perceived value and product benefits. Effective distributor and supplier communication supports consistent promotional efforts. Offline promotional methods such as bazaars and exhibitions were found to be more successful in engaging customers compared to social media outreach. This study highlights the need for tailored marketing strategies that leverage both traditional and digital channels to optimize market reach for traditional herbal medicine products.

Exploring Social Media Use Among Medical Students Applying for Residency Training: Cross-Sectional Survey Study.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, residency candidates have moved from attending traditional in-person interviews to virtual interviews with residency training programs. This transition spurred increased social media engagement by residency candidates, in an effort to learn about prospective programs, and by residency programs, to improve recruitment efforts. There is a paucity of literature on the effectiveness of social media outreach and its impact on candidates' perceptions of residency programs. We aimed to determine patterns of social media platform usage among prospective residency candidates and social media's influence on students' perceptions of residency programs. A cross-sectional survey was administered anonymously to fourth-year medical students who successfully matched to a residency training program at a single institution in 2023. These data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, as well as thematic analysis for open-ended questions. Of the 148 eligible participants, 69 (46.6%) responded to the survey, of whom 45 (65.2%) used social media. Widely used social media platforms were Instagram (19/40, 47.5%) and Reddit (18/40, 45%). Social media influenced 47.6% (20/42) of respondents' opinions of programs and had a moderate or major effect on 26.2% (11/42) of respondents' decisions on program ranking. Resident-faculty relations and social events showcasing camaraderie and wellness were the most desired content. Social media is used by the majority of residency candidates during the residency application process and influences residency program ranking. This highlights the importance of residency programs in leveraging social media usage to recruit applicants and provide information that allows the candidate to better understand the program.

Exploring the Feasibility of a 5-Week mHealth Intervention to Enhance Physical Activity and an Active, Healthy Lifestyle in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Mixed Methods Study.

Advancements in mobile technology have paved the way for innovative interventions aimed at promoting physical activity (PA). The main objective of this feasibility study was to assess the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of the More In Action (MIA) app, designed to promote PA among older adults. MIA offers 7 features: personalized tips, PA literacy, guided peer workouts, a community calendar, a personal activity diary, a progression monitor, and a chatbot. Our study used a mixed methods approach to evaluate the MIA app's acceptability, feasibility, and usability. First, a think-aloud method was used to provide immediate feedback during initial app use. Participants then integrated the app into their daily activities for 5 weeks. Behavioral patterns such as user session duration, feature use frequency, and navigation paths were analyzed, focusing on engagement metrics and user interactions. User satisfaction was assessed using the System Usability Scale, Net Promoter Score, and Customer Satisfaction Score. Qualitative data from focus groups conducted after the 5-week intervention helped gather insights into user experiences. Participants were recruited using a combination of web-based and offline strategies, including social media outreach, newspaper advertisements, and presentations at older adult organizations and local community services. Our target group consisted of native Dutch-speaking older adults aged >65 years who were not affected by severe illnesses. Initial assessments and focus groups were conducted in person, whereas the intervention itself was web based. The study involved 30 participants with an average age of 70.3 (SD 4.8) years, of whom 57% (17/30) were female. The app received positive ratings, with a System Usability Scale score of 77.4 and a Customer Satisfaction Score of 86.6%. Analysis showed general satisfaction with the app's workout videos, which were used in 585 sessions with a median duration of 14 (IQR 0-34) minutes per day. The Net Promoter Score was 33.34, indicating a good level of customer loyalty. Qualitative feedback highlighted the need for improvements in navigation, content relevance, and social engagement features, with suggestions for better calendar visibility, workout customization, and enhanced social features. Overall, the app demonstrated high usability and satisfaction, with near-daily engagement from participants. The MIA app shows significant potential for promoting PA among older adults, evidenced by its high usability and satisfaction scores. Participants engaged with the app nearly daily, particularly appreciating the workout videos and educational content. Future enhancements should focus on better calendar visibility, workout customization, and integrating social networking features to foster community and support. In addition, incorporating wearable device integration and predictive analytics could provide real-time health data, optimizing activity recommendations and health monitoring. These enhancements will ensure that the app remains user-friendly, relevant, and sustainable, promoting sustained PA and healthy behaviors among older adults. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05650515; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05650515.

The Roles of Persis in Education Development in Indonesia 1923-2024

Persis (Persatuan Islam –Islamic Union) is one of the Islamic organizations in Indonesia that has made a significant contribution to the development of education since it was founded in 1923. This article aims to analyze the role of Persis in building an education system based on Islamic values, starting from the colonial era and the independence to the current modern era. Using a historical and qualitative-descriptive approach, this research examines the educational strategies, challenges and innovations carried out by Persis through madrasas, Islamic boarding schools and formal educational institutions. The findings show that Persis is consistent in fighting for education based on pure Islamic beliefs, both through curriculum formation, teacher training and the development of educational institutions. In the reform and digital era, Persis continues to adapt to technology and global needs to ensure the relevance of Islamic education in producing a generation with noble character and high competence. This research confirms that the role of Persis education does not only cover the Islamic realm but also contributes to Indonesia's national development. Contribution: By promoting character education through various community initiatives, including social media outreach, Persis demonstrates its commitment to fostering a generation that embodies noble values while being equipped for modern societal roles.

Addressing oral cancer inequalities: a multifaceted approach to equitable healthcare.

Oral cancer remains a persistent health challenge globally, with rising incidence and flat survival rates, particularly among disadvantaged populations. This paper explores the socioeconomic, ethnic and cultural factors contributing to inequalities in oral cancer care, such as limited access to healthcare, lower education levels, financial constraints and systemic disadvantages based on ethnicity and cultural practices. Addressing these inequalities requires a multi-faceted approach, including community outreach, patient education and policy advocacy.Effective strategies include mobile clinics, free screening events, culturally sensitive educational materials, digital tools and social media outreach. Integrating telehealth services, artificial intelligence for early diagnosis, community-based participatory research and microfinance initiatives are also crucial. Furthermore, improving health literacy and promoting preventive behaviours are essential steps towards mitigating these inequalities.Public health education and social services must collaborate to enhance access to dental care, ensuring better outcomes across all populations, regardless of socioeconomic or ethnic background. This paper highlights the role of dental professionals in reducing inequalities and promoting oral health equity through innovative and comprehensive strategies.

Co-Designing Case Scenarios and Survey Strategies to Examine the Classification and Reporting of Restrictive Care Practices in Adult Mental Health Inpatient Settings: Perspectives From International Stakeholders.

There is a global initiative to reduce the use of restrictive care practices in mental health settings. Variations in the reported rates across regions complicate the understanding of their use and tracking trends over time. However, it remains unclear whether these discrepancies reflect real differences in the implementation of these practices or are sourced from inconsistencies in incident classification and reporting methods. This study employed a co-design approach to identify contexts that would influence the classification and reporting of restrictive care practices. The research involved 29 mental health stakeholders, including 22 professional experts from 13 countries across Europe, Africa, North America, Asia and Australasia and seven service users and family carers from Australia. Recruitment was conducted through email invitations, snowball sampling and social media outreach. Six web-based panel meetings, each lasting 90-120 minnutes were held. These discussions focused on exploring various contexts that might lead to uncertainty among professionals when classifying and reporting actions whether or not as restrictive care practices. A final list of 23 contexts was identified and considered for the development of 81 case scenario items. Finally, all the 29 panel members selected 44 from 81 case scenarios for inclusion in an upcoming international survey to examine variations in the classification and reporting of restrictive care practices. The findings from this co-design work emphasise the involvement of a wide range of factors and contexts in the classification and reporting of restrictive care practices that maycontribute to the observed variations in the in the reported rates of these practices. The case scenarios developed in this study will support future research and serve educational purposes, illustrating real-life situations in the mental healthcare context.

Leveraging digital marketing for health behavior change: A model for engaging patients through pharmacies

Leveraging digital marketing for health behavior change can significantly enhance patient engagement, especially when deployed through pharmacies. Pharmacies play a pivotal role in public health by serving as accessible points of care where patients can receive critical health information and support for managing various conditions. This paper examines the intersection of behavioral theories, such as the Health Belief Model and Social Cognitive Theory, with digital marketing strategies tailored for health engagement. It discusses how pharmacies can effectively use targeted content, social media outreach, and personalized messaging to influence health behaviors. Through a pharmacy-centered approach, digital initiatives like mobile applications, loyalty programs, and telehealth promotions offer new avenues for reaching patients and encouraging proactive health decisions. However, challenges such as data privacy concerns, the risk of misinformation, and regulatory compliance pose barriers to successful implementation. To address these issues, this paper presents recommendations that include secure data practices, evidence-based content, and inclusive digital solutions. Ultimately, by combining theoretical insights with practical digital marketing strategies, pharmacies can foster healthier behaviors, improve patient outcomes, and support broader public health goals.

Abstract 4141747: The OurHealth Study: A Decentralized Biobank of South Asian Americans

Introduction: South Asians living in the United States (SAUS) experience greater cardiovascular disease (CVD) events compared to most other racial and ethnic groups. Limited representation and collection of relevant community-specific identity, health, lifestyle, and exposure factors in studies to date have impeded understanding of this elevated risk. To address these scientific gaps, the OurHealth study was devised as a scalable national biobank of SAUS populated with demographic, health, and genetic data. Aims: The primary objectives of OurHealth are to discover South Asian-specific genomic and non-genomic risk factors for CVD and serve as a reliable resource of culturally appropriate information for cardiovascular health. Methods: OurHealth is enabled by the study platform website (https://ourhealthstudy.org), recruiting adult individuals who (1) identify with South Asian ancestry, (2) are comfortable reading or speaking English, and (3) live in the US. Recruitment efforts include social media outreach, community-based events, clinic recruitment, and health webinars, amongst others. OurHealth integrates the data donation and genomics platforms, allowing participants to remotely consent, complete surveys collecting demographic and health information, and return biospecimens for genetic sequencing. Results: Of the 664 participants who have completed the Baseline Survey, OurHealth currently includes 288 (43.4%) females and 19 (2.9%) additionally identifying with non-Asian ethnicity. Study participants’ mean (SD) age is 46 (13.8) years. Participants represent 362 unique South Asian region-language-religion groups with varied representation across the US and several identifying with multiple groups (Fig 1). Of the 615 participants who have completed the cardiometabolic history survey, 39 (6.3%) report a prior diagnosis of coronary artery disease, 237 (38.5%) hypercholesterolemia, 115 (18.7%) hypertension, 11 (1.8%) prior myocardial infarction, and 72 (11.7%) type 2 diabetes. Conclusions: OurHealth is an ongoing diverse national biobank building on prior efforts. The study provides a unique opportunity to better discover and understand the drivers of CVD risk across a diverse South Asian population in the US.

Using civically engaged research to understand the strategic dynamics of social media outreach

ABSTRACT Racial justice organizations often operate in contentious and volatile environments with intense resource demands. This reality was especially apparent in 2020, when a global pandemic, social uprisings, and a relatively provocative presidential election drastically altered racial justice organizations' capacity to engage with their constituents. This paper details how we, a team of political science researchers, applied civically engaged research (CER) principles in collaboration with two local racial justice organizations to understand the strategic dynamics of social media outreach, particularly during hostile and challenging times. This paper advances collective and practical understandings of how CER can proceed, particularly as researchers navigate complexities such as defining reciprocity and developing partnerships. Further, we present five main lessons learned throughout our CER process. Overall, we highlight how CER can improve collaborations with vulnerable communities navigating challenging political environments and how CER can better inform academic research on the strategic dynamics of social media outreach.

A conceptual framework for integrating digital transformation in healthcare marketing to boost patient engagement and compliance

This paper presents a conceptual framework for integrating digital transformation in healthcare marketing to enhance patient engagement and compliance with treatment regimens. As healthcare systems evolve, the adoption of digital technologies has become imperative for fostering meaningful interactions between patients and providers. The proposed framework emphasizes leveraging digital marketing techniques, data analytics, and personalized communication strategies to strengthen patient-provider relationships and improve health outcomes. At the core of the framework is the use of digital marketing techniques, including social media outreach, content marketing, and mobile applications, to reach patients effectively. These tools facilitate the dissemination of vital health information and resources, enabling patients to make informed decisions about their care. By utilizing data analytics, healthcare organizations can gain insights into patient behaviors, preferences, and demographics, allowing for the customization of marketing efforts to meet the specific needs of diverse patient populations. Personalized communication strategies are pivotal in this framework, as they empower healthcare providers to deliver tailored messages that resonate with individual patients. This personalization fosters a sense of connection and trust, encouraging patients to engage actively in their treatment plans. By utilizing patient data, providers can send reminders, educational content, and motivational messages that enhance treatment adherence and compliance. Moreover, the framework addresses the importance of feedback loops, where healthcare organizations continuously gather and analyze patient responses to marketing efforts. This iterative process allows for the optimization of strategies, ensuring they remain effective and relevant over time. By fostering a culture of engagement, organizations can cultivate long-term relationships with patients, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes. In conclusion, this conceptual framework serves as a strategic guide for healthcare organizations aiming to harness digital transformation in their marketing efforts. By integrating digital marketing techniques, data analytics, and personalized communication strategies, organizations can enhance patient engagement, improve treatment adherence, and positively impact overall health outcomes.

Using Social Media to Engage and Enroll Underrepresented Populations: Longitudinal Digital Health Research.

Emerging digital health research poses roadblocks to the inclusion of historically marginalized populations in research. Exclusion of underresourced communities in digital health research is a result of multiple factors (eg, limited technology access, decreased digital literacy, language barriers, and historical mistrust of research and research institutions). Alternative methods of access and engagement may aid in achieving long-term sustainability of diversified participation in digital health research, ensuring that developed technologies and research outcomes are effective and equitable. This study aims to (1) characterize socioeconomic and demographic differences in individuals who enrolled and engaged with different remote, digital, and traditional recruitment methods in a digital health pregnancy study and (2) determine whether social media outreach is an efficient way of recruiting and retaining specific underrepresented populations (URPs) in digital health research. The Better Understanding the Metamorphosis of Pregnancy (BUMP) study was used as a case example. This is a prospective, observational, cohort study using digital health technology to increase understanding of pregnancy among 524 women, aged 18-40 years, in the United States. The study used different recruitment strategies: patient portal for genetic testing results, paid/unpaid social media ads, and a community health organization providing care to pregnant women (Moses/Weitzman Health System). Social media as a recruitment tool to engage URPs in a digital health study was overall effective, with a 23.6% (140/594) enrollment rate of those completing study interest forms across 25 weeks. Community-based partnerships were less successful, however, resulting in 53.3% (57/107) engagement with recruitment material and only 8.8% (5/57) ultimately enrolling in the study. Paid social media ads provided access to and enrollment of a diverse potential participant pool of race- or ethnicity-based URPs in comparison to other digital recruitment channels. Of those that engaged with study materials, paid recruitment had the highest percentage of non-White (non-Hispanic) respondents (85/321, 26.5%), in comparison to unpaid ads (Facebook and Reddit; 37/167, 22.2%). Of the enrolled participants, paid ads also had the highest percentage of non-White (non-Hispanic) participants (14/70, 20%), compared to unpaid ads (8/52, 15.4%) and genetic testing service subscribers (72/384, 18.8%). Recruitment completed via paid ads (Instagram) had the highest study retention rate (52/70, 74.3%) across outreach methods, whereas recruitment via community-based partnerships had the lowest (2/5, 40%). Retention of non-White (non-Hispanic) participants was low across recruitment methods: paid (8/52, 15.4%), unpaid (3/35, 14.3%), and genetic testing service subscribers (50/281, 17.8%). Social media recruitment (paid/unpaid) provides access to URPs and facilitates sustained retention similar to other methods, but with varying strengths and weaknesses. URPs showed lower retention rates than their White counterparts across outreach methods. Community-based recruitment showed lower engagement, enrollment, and retention. These findings highlight social media's potential for URP engagement and enrollment, illuminate potential roadblocks of traditional methods, and underscore the need for tailored research to improve URP enrollment and retention.