Publication:

Influence of social media on health-related decision making among caregivers attending an outpatient department in a tertiary care hospital, Bengaluru

Background Social media has emerged as an influential source of health information, shaping public perceptions and behaviours. While it enhances awareness, it also risks disseminating misinformation, potentially affecting health related decisions and trust in healthcare providers. This study was conducted to determine the influence of social media on health-related decisions among adults.

Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 130 caregivers aged ≥18 years attending OPD’s. A purposive sampling method was used to recruit participants. Data were collected through a pretested semi-structured questionnaire various aspects of social media use and its impact on healthcare decision-making. Data were analyzed using MS Excel.

Results Most participants actively used WhatsApp (82%), YouTube (76%) and Facebook (68%) for health-related information. Social media significantly influenced doctor selection (58%) and lifestyle modifications (64%) among users. Notably, 64 participants (49%) reported encountering misleading or incorrect health information. Trust in online health content varied significantly across age and education levels, with younger and more educated individuals showing higher reliance on social media for medical guidance.

Conclusion Social media substantially influences health-related decision-making among caregivers, particularly regarding lifestyle and healthcare provider choices. The study highlights the urgent need to improve digital health literacy, ensure content authenticity, and create awareness about credible online health sources.