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Knock M, Carpenter DM, Thomas KC, Lee C, Adjei A, Lowery J, Coyne I, Garcia N, Sleath B. Disseminating a health information website to teens using a three-pronged approach with social media outreach. PEC INNOVATION 2024; 4:100288. [PMID: 38766572 PMCID: PMC11101743 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2024.100288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Objective To disseminate iuveo.org, a new health information website, primarily to teens in the United States using a three-pronged approach of social media, in-person, and emails. Methods Dissemination methods included a combination of in-person, email, and social media campaigns starting in August 2022 to reach teens and stakeholders focused on teen health. Following the Social Marketing Theory framework, a social media campaign was implemented utilizing Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). Website analytics, including monthly usage of iuveo, was measured utilizing Google Analytics. The intrinsic analytics from X and Instagram were also tracked. Results From August 2022-July 2023, iuveo attracted 1338 unique users to the website. In the same time frame, 1085 accounts were reached on Instagram, and 14,367 impressions were received on X. Most website users (84.8%) were classified as 'direct' acquisition, meaning that they directly typed in the URL or clicked on a link, and 7.3% of users visited iuveo from a social media platform. Conclusion A three-pronged dissemination strategy is beneficial when disseminating a new health information website. Innovation Utilizing a three-pronged approach with a social media campaign based on Social Marketing Theory, a health information website was disseminated to youth in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- McKenna Knock
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, United States of America
| | - Delesha M. Carpenter
- Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, United States of America
| | - Kathleen C. Thomas
- Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, United States of America
- UNC Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, United States of America
| | - Charles Lee
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, United States of America
| | - Abena Adjei
- Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, United States of America
| | - Jeremy Lowery
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, United States of America
| | - Imelda Coyne
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin College Green, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nacire Garcia
- Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, United States of America
- UNC Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, United States of America
| | - Betsy Sleath
- Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, United States of America
- UNC Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, United States of America
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Paraskeva N, Haywood S, Hasan F, Nicholls D, Toledano MB, Diedrichs PC. An exploration of having social media influencers deliver a first-line digital intervention to improve body image among adolescent girls: A qualitative study. Body Image 2024; 51:101753. [PMID: 38901182 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Social media influencers are popular among adolescents and could offer a unique way to reach young people at scale with body image interventions. This study explored girls' and influencers' views on having influencers deliver body image interventions through vlogs (video blogs) and to gain insight into their preferred format, content, and views on factors that encourage engagement with vlogs. Twenty-one UK based participants were recruited. Three online focus groups were conducted with adolescent girls (n = 16) aged 14-18 years and one with influencers (n = 5) aged 24-33 years, who had a collective following of over 1.5 million subscribers across social media platforms. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and four themes were generated: Choosing an influencer whose messages and core values are aligned with the topic of body image; the importance of influencer authenticity and personal experience; collaborating on content creation with mental health professionals; and the need for long-form (i.e., 10-20 min) content to address serious topics. Findings suggest having influencers deliver body image interventions to young people could be a useful approach. Results highlight the need to engage with end users from the outset of intervention development to increase the likelihood of intervention effectiveness and engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Paraskeva
- Centre for Appearance Research, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK.
| | - Sharon Haywood
- Centre for Appearance Research, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Farheen Hasan
- Centre for Appearance Research, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Dasha Nicholls
- Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Mireille B Toledano
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, UK; MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, UK; Mohn Centre for Children's Health and Wellbeing, Imperial College London, UK
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Michel AE, Miller ES, Singh P, Schulz G, Limaye RJ. The Emerging Landscape of Social Media Influencers in Public Health Collaborations: A Scoping Review. Health Promot Pract 2024:15248399241258442. [PMID: 38872333 DOI: 10.1177/15248399241258442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Social media content creators or "influencers" are an increasingly influential voice in the public discourse generally, including global perceptions and practices related to health. In response, public health entities are increasingly embracing social media influencers (SMIs) as potential health promotion collaborators. Despite burgeoning interest in the potential of these partnerships, research evaluating this strategy remains limited. To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review to characterize and describe the current landscape of health promotion collaborations with SMIs with a focus on current practices. A search of six electronic databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, Communication & Mass Media Complete, CINAHL Plus, Web of Science, and APA PsycINFO) revealed wide-ranging and inconsistent approaches to these partnerships, including their optimal practices, data reported, and their evaluation criteria. Among the 658 articles initially identified, 15 publications met our inclusion criteria, spanning 7 countries, 8 social media platforms, 11 distinct health topics, and 21 different outcome measures. Basic information necessary for comparing across interventions was often lacking. We noted a lack of consensus on what constitutes an SMI with 53% of included studies lacking any definition or criteria. Although SMIs offer substantial promise as an emerging opportunity for health promotion, particularly for populations that may be otherwise difficult to identify or reach, this review highlights how the current lack of standardized methodologies and metrics prevents meaningful comparisons between collaborations and evaluations of their effectiveness. Based on these findings, we propose four key criteria to aid practitioners in the implementation and evaluation of SMI collaborations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emily S Miller
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Prachi Singh
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gretchen Schulz
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rupali J Limaye
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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4
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Smart A, Williams R, Weiner K, Cheng L, Sobande F. Ethico-racial positioning in campaigns for COVID-19 research and vaccination featuring public figures. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2024; 46:984-1003. [PMID: 38234078 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
This article analyses a set of videos which featured public figures encouraging racially minoritised people in the UK to take the COVID-19 vaccine or get involved in related research. As racially targeted health communication has both potentially beneficial and problematic consequences, it is important to examine this uniquely high-profile case. Using a purposive sample of 10 videos, our thematic content analysis aimed to reveal how racially minoritised people were represented and the types of concerns about the vaccine that were expressed. We found representations of racialised difference that centred on 'community' and invoked shared social experiences. The expressed concerns centred on whether ethnic difference was accounted for in the vaccine's design and development, plus the overarching issue of trust. Our analysis adopts and develops the concept of 'racialisation'; we explore how 'mutuality' underpinned normative calls to action ('ethico-racial imperatives') and how the videos 'responsibilised' racially minoritised people. We discuss two points of tension in this case: the limitations for addressing the causes of mistrust and the risks of reductivism that accompanied the ambiguous notion of community. Our analysis develops scholarship on racialisation in health contexts and provides public health practitioners with insights into the socio-political considerations of racially targeted communications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Smart
- School of Sciences, Bath Spa University, Bath, UK
| | - Ros Williams
- Department of Sociological Studies, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Kate Weiner
- Department of Sociological Studies, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Lijiaozi Cheng
- Department of Sociological Studies, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Francesca Sobande
- School of Journalism, Media and Culture, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Corcoran E, Doucette H, Merrill JE, Pielech M, López G, Egbert A, Nelapati S, Gabrielli J, Colby SM, Jackson KM. A qualitative analysis of adolescents' perspectives on peer and influencer alcohol-related posts on social media. Drug Alcohol Rev 2024; 43:13-27. [PMID: 37533232 PMCID: PMC10834843 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescent exposure to alcohol-related content on social media is common and associated with alcohol use and perceived norms; however, little is known about how exposure differs by the source of the content (e.g., peer or 'influencer'). The purpose of this study was to utilise qualitative methods to compare adolescent perspectives on peer- versus influencer-generated alcohol content on social media. METHODS Nine virtual semi-structured focus groups were conducted with adolescents (aged 15-19 years), following a general script aimed at ascertaining adolescent comparative perspectives on peer and influencer alcohol-related media content and the contexts in which it occurs. RESULTS Five main themes emerged: (i) although both influencers and peers post predominantly positively-valenced alcohol content online, adolescents perceived some differences between these posts; (ii) adolescents perceived their peers to be more cautious and strategic when posting about alcohol than influencers are; (iii) the decision to engage with peer or influencer alcohol-related posts is influenced by a number of factors; (iv) both peer and influencer posts were perceived to send the message that drinking is acceptable, normal or cool; and (v) adolescents believed they are more likely to be influenced by peers' alcohol posts than influencers' alcohol posts, with some exceptions. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Future studies should aim to further understand the unique attributes and circumstances in which exposure to peer and influencer alcohol-related posts impact adolescent alcohol-related cognitions and behaviours. This knowledge will inform prevention and intervention efforts, such as media literacy training and media-specific parenting practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Corcoran
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Hannah Doucette
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA
| | - Jennifer E. Merrill
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA
| | - Melissa Pielech
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, USA
| | - Gabriela López
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA
| | - Amy Egbert
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Storrs, USA
| | - Shimei Nelapati
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Joy Gabrielli
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Suzanne M. Colby
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, USA
| | - Kristina M. Jackson
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA
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Engel E, Gell S, Heiss R, Karsay K. Social media influencers and adolescents' health: A scoping review of the research field. Soc Sci Med 2024; 340:116387. [PMID: 38039770 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Social media influencers (SMIs) have become an important source of health information for adolescents. However, the lack of expertise and commercial interests of SMIs pose challenges for adolescent health. To gain a better understanding of these challenges, this scoping review aimed to synthesize existing research on the role of SMIs in adolescent health. Using the PRISMA-ScR approach, we conducted a comprehensive search of eight databases and screened articles based on predefined criteria. The final sample included 51 articles published between 2012 and 2022. Results revealed inconsistent definitions and classifications of SMIs. The most common topics included appearance, nutrition, and substance use, while mental and sexual health topics were underrepresented. The ability of SMIs to establish trustworthy relationships with their followers was highlighted in the reviewed studies, shedding light on potential benefits and challenges for adolescent health. However, most studies focused on the negative roles of SMIs, such as the promotion of unrealistic body images, unhealthy diets, substance use, and inaccurate diagnosis and treatment advice. In addition, inappropriate advertising of unhealthy products (e.g., junk food, tobacco products and alcohol) was identified as a major challenge. The reviewed studies identified stricter regulation and improved social media and health literacy as important avenues for policy action. Less attention was given to the potential positive impact of SMIs and how to effectively include them in health promotion campaigns. In addition, the majority of studies were conducted in the Global North and relied on quantitative approaches, resulting in a lack of representation of minority populations and male adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Engel
- University of Vienna, Department of Communication, Kolingasse 14-16, 1070 Vienna, Austria; MCI | The Entrepreneurial School©, Center for Social & Health Innovation, Universitätsstraße 15, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Sascha Gell
- University of Vienna, Department of Communication, Kolingasse 14-16, 1070 Vienna, Austria; MCI | The Entrepreneurial School©, Center for Social & Health Innovation, Universitätsstraße 15, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Raffael Heiss
- MCI | The Entrepreneurial School©, Center for Social & Health Innovation, Universitätsstraße 15, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Kathrin Karsay
- University of Vienna, Department of Communication, Kolingasse 14-16, 1070 Vienna, Austria.
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7
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Nguyen Zarndt A, Guo M, Benoza G. The role of social media influencers as trusted messengers in tobacco control mass media campaigns. JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION IN HEALTHCARE 2023; 16:344-346. [PMID: 37639540 PMCID: PMC10841044 DOI: 10.1080/17538068.2023.2249714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anh Nguyen Zarndt
- Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Merrybelle Guo
- Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Gem Benoza
- Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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8
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Vassey J, Valente T, Barker J, Stanton C, Li D, Laestadius L, Cruz TB, Unger JB. E-cigarette brands and social media influencers on Instagram: a social network analysis. Tob Control 2023; 32:e184-e191. [PMID: 35131947 PMCID: PMC9473311 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-057053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to visual posts featuring e-cigarette products on social media is associated with increased e-cigarette use among US adolescents. Instagram is the largest source of e-cigarette social media marketing, where influencers-for example, bloggers, brand ambassadors-post promotional materials. This study analysed the network of e-cigarette brands and influencers on Instagram, characterising the most central players in e-cigarette social media marketing. METHODS We tracked influencers with public profiles on Instagram who posted promotional e-cigarette content in 2020, had over 1000 followers and high user engagement rate (ratio of likes and comments to followers) of 1%-25% per post. By conducting a social network analysis, we identified the most central (highly involved in promotional activities) influencers and e-cigarette brands. The number of the influencers' followers aged 13-17 years old and the age verification practices restricting youth access were also assessed. RESULTS There is a highly interconnected network of engaging e-cigarette influencers (n=55) worldwide who collaborated with over 600 e-cigarette brands in 2020. The Asian and US influencers had five to six times more teenage followers compared with the European influencers. 75% of the influencers did not restrict youth access to their promotional content on Instagram. The brands Voopotech, Innokin, Geekvape, Lost Vape, Smok and Vaporesso collaborated with the largest number of influencers (mean n=20). CONCLUSIONS It is important to understand associations among influencers and e-cigarette use behaviours, especially youth, to inform effective public health communication and potential policies that could regulate social media marketing sponsored by e-cigarette companies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Vassey
- Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Tom Valente
- Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Joshua Barker
- Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Cassandra Stanton
- Behavioral Health and Health Policy Practice, Westat, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Dongmei Li
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Linnea Laestadius
- Zilber School of Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Tess Boley Cruz
- Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jennifer B Unger
- Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Cholowsky NL, Chen MJ, Selouani G, Pett SC, Pearson DD, Danforth JM, Fenton S, Rydz E, Diteljan MJ, Peters CE, Goodarzi AA. Consequences of changing Canadian activity patterns since the COVID-19 pandemic include increased residential radon gas exposure for younger people. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5735. [PMID: 37029226 PMCID: PMC10081328 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32416-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has produced widespread behaviour changes that shifted how people split their time between different environments, altering health risks. Here, we report an update of North American activity patterns before and after pandemic onset, and implications to radioactive radon gas exposure, a leading cause of lung cancer. We surveyed 4009 Canadian households home to people of varied age, gender, employment, community, and income. Whilst overall time spent indoors remained unchanged, time in primary residence increased from 66.4 to 77% of life (+ 1062 h/y) after pandemic onset, increasing annual radiation doses from residential radon by 19.2% (0.97 mSv/y). Disproportionately greater changes were experienced by younger people in newer urban or suburban properties with more occupants, and/or those employed in managerial, administrative, or professional roles excluding medicine. Microinfluencer-based public health messaging stimulated health-seeking behaviour amongst highly impacted, younger groups by > 50%. This work supports re-evaluating environmental health risks modified by still-changing activity patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha L Cholowsky
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Myra J Chen
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ghozllane Selouani
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Sophie C Pett
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Dustin D Pearson
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - John M Danforth
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Shelby Fenton
- Department of Oncology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ela Rydz
- Department of Oncology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Cheryl E Peters
- Department of Oncology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, British Columbia Cancer, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Aaron A Goodarzi
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Department of Oncology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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Shi A, El Haddad J, Cai P, Song S, Wang YJ, Liu Q, Li P. Mpox (monkeypox) information on TikTok: analysis of quality and audience engagement. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:bmjgh-2022-011138. [PMID: 36918216 PMCID: PMC10016284 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2022-011138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Online information on mpox (monkeypox) is not well studied. We have analysed the video content, information quality, and audience engagement of mpox-related videos on TikTok. METHODS Using a hashtag-based searching strategy, we identified 2462 mpox-related videos on TikTok from 1 January to 11 August 2022; 85 were included after exclusion criteria screening. Videos were evaluated for content on features and treatment of mpox. Video and information quality was assessed using the DISCERN instrument and the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) criteria. We recorded video source, evaluation scores, and viewer engagement metrics. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for statistical analysis and multiple linear regression for factor-association studies. RESULTS Of the 85 videos, two assessed all content topics and highlighted 33% of all content items in clinical guidelines. The overall average score for the videos was 39.56 of 80 on the DISCERN instrument and 1.93 of 4 on the JAMA criteria. No video met all JAMA criteria. Subgroup analysis based on author identity suggested the variance in video scores by source (p<0.05 for all). Overall scores were higher for videos produced by doctors and science communicators than for those made by institutional users, nurses, and the general public. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that having people in the video (69.20, p=0.0001) and including information on treatment choices (1.15, p=0.045) were significant, independent determinants of audience engagement. CONCLUSION Public-directed TikTok videos on mpox frequently provide incomplete, inaccurate information, highlighting the potential risks of using TikTok as a health information source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Shi
- Faculty of Medicine, St George's University of London, London, UK.,School of Medicine, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Joe El Haddad
- Faculty of Medicine, St George's University of London, London, UK.,School of Medicine, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Peng Cai
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shijie Song
- Business School, Hohai University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan Jia Wang
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Qi Liu
- Wafic Said Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Texas Heart Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Pengyang Li
- Division of Cardiology, Pauley Heart Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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Incidental Influencing: A Thematic Analysis of Couple and Family Therapists’ Experiences of Professional Social Media. CONTEMPORARY FAMILY THERAPY 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s10591-022-09658-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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12
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Pretorius C, McCashin D, Coyle D. Mental health professionals as influencers on TikTok and Instagram: What role do they play in mental health literacy and help-seeking? Internet Interv 2022; 30:100591. [PMID: 36458161 PMCID: PMC9706523 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2022.100591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental disorders are recognised as the leading causes of disability worldwide. Despite high rates of incidence, few young people pursue formal help-seeking. Low levels of mental health literacy have been identified as a contributing factor to the notable lack of formal help-seeking by young people. Social media offers a potential means through which to engage and improve young people's mental health literacy. Mental health influencers could be a means through which to do this. OBJECTIVE The objectives of this study were two-fold: (1) to systematically identify the most popular mental health professionals who could be classified as 'influencers'; and (2) to determine whether their content contributed to mental health literacy. METHODS The search function of Instagram and TikTok was used to generate a list of accounts owned by mental health professionals with over 100,000 followers. Accounts not in English, in private, with no posts in the last year or with content unrelated to the search terms were excluded. Accounts were assessed for number of followers, country of origin, verified status and whether a disclaimer was included. Using content analysis, the five most recent posts dating back from 15 November 2021 were analysed for purpose and dimensions of mental health literacy as outlined by Jorm (2000) by three separate reviewers. RESULTS A total of 28 influencer accounts were identified on TikTok and 22 on Instagram. Majority of the accounts on both TikTok and Instagram originated from the United States (n = 35). A greater number of accounts included disclaimer and crisis support information on Instagram (12/22, 54.55 %) than on TikTok (8/22, 36.36 %). A total of 140 posts were analysed on TikTok and 110 posts on Instagram. When addressing elements of mental health literacy from this sample, 23.57 % (33/140) TikTok posts and 7.27 %. (8/110) posts on Instagram enhanced the ability to recognise specific difficulties. CONCLUSIONS These platforms and accounts provide a potential means through which to make mental health information more accessible, however, these accounts are not subjected to any credibility checks. Careful consideration should be given to the impact of content created by mental health professionals and its role in supporting help-seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudette Pretorius
- Insight Centre for Data Analytics, School of Computer Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - David Coyle
- School of Computer Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Corresponding author.
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Gaysynsky A, Heley K, Chou WYS. An Overview of Innovative Approaches to Support Timely and Agile Health Communication Research and Practice. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15073. [PMID: 36429796 PMCID: PMC9690360 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Innovative approaches are needed to make health communication research and practice more timely, responsive, and effective in a rapidly changing information ecosystem. In this paper we provide an overview of strategies that can enhance the delivery and effectiveness of health communication campaigns and interventions, as well as research approaches that can generate useful data and insights for decisionmakers and campaign designers, thereby reducing the research-to-practice gap. The discussion focuses on the following approaches: digital segmentation and microtargeting, social media influencer campaigns, recommender systems, adaptive interventions, A/B testing, efficient message testing protocols, rapid cycle iterative message testing, megastudies, and agent-based modeling. For each method highlighted, we also outline important practical and ethical considerations for utilizing the approach in the context of health communication research and practice, including issues related to transparency, privacy, equity, and potential for harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gaysynsky
- Health Communication and Informatics Research Branch, Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
- ICF Next, ICF, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Kathryn Heley
- Health Communication and Informatics Research Branch, Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Wen-Ying Sylvia Chou
- Health Communication and Informatics Research Branch, Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
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Guillory J, Curry L, Farrelly M, Henes A, Homsi G, Saunders M, MacMonegle A, Fiacco L, Alexander T, Delahanty J, Mekos D, Hoffman L, Ganz O. Reach, Receptivity, And Beliefs Associated With the Fresh Empire Campaign to Prevent and Reduce Cigarette Use Among Youth in the United States. Am J Health Promot 2022; 36:789-800. [PMID: 35081751 PMCID: PMC9258634 DOI: 10.1177/08901171211069991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the association between exposure to FDA's Fresh Empire tobacco public education campaign and tobacco-related beliefs. DESIGN Repeated cross-sectional data collection design with embedded longitudinal cohort over six data collection waves. SETTING 30 US evaluation markets. SAMPLE Hip Hop peer crowd-identified US youth aged 12-18 (N = 5,378). MEASURES Self-reported brand and video ad awareness (saw any ad at least sometimes) and perceived effectiveness (1-5 scale) to describe campaign awareness and receptivity. Exogenous exposure was measured using population-adjusted broadcast and digital video impressions. Tobacco-related beliefs included beliefs about smoking risks, attitudes towards tobacco-free people and lifestyles, and normative beliefs about smoking. ANALYSIS Descriptive analyses of awareness, receptivity, and agreement with tobacco-related beliefs. Logistic regression models to determine the relationship between broadcast and digital video impressions and beliefs. INTERVENTION Fresh Empire campaign. RESULTS The campaign generated a high level of reach (71% brand and 66% video ad awareness at final wave) and messages were well-received (across waves 3.5-4.1 mean perceived effectiveness scores). Higher broadcast television exposure was associated with increased agreement with five beliefs related to addiction/control, being a bad influence on family/friends, and cosmetic effects of smoking (breath and attractiveness) (ORs = 1.16-1.27, (Ps < .05)). CONCLUSION Fresh Empire successfully reached and resonated with Hip Hop-identified youth. The campaign was associated with a limited number of targeted beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Amy Henes
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Ghada Homsi
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Leah Fiacco
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Tesfa Alexander
- Center for Tobacco Products, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MA, USA
| | - Janine Delahanty
- Center for Tobacco Products, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MA, USA
| | - Debra Mekos
- Center for Tobacco Products, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MA, USA
| | | | - Ollie Ganz
- Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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Zhou M, Ramírez AS, Chittamuru D. Toward a Recipe for Deep versus Surface Level Tailoring: Mixed-Methods Validation of Message Features to Reduce Sugary Beverage Consumption. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022; 27:211-221. [PMID: 35730401 PMCID: PMC9391283 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2022.2089301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Targeted marketing contributes to the overconsumption of sugary beverages, which contributes to obesity and diabetes disparities among African American and Latino populations in the U.S. Health communicators can similarly use culturally tailored messages to decrease sugary beverage consumption among these groups, yet the specific strategies to operationalize cultural tailoring-the message components essential for such tailoring-are ill-described. We sought to identify and validate authentically created, culturally tailored messages using a multiple step mixed-methods approach. First, we used a snowball approach to identify nutrition education messages targeting ethnic minorities about reducing sugary beverage consumption (N = 85). Via content analysis, we assessed message features (character gender and race/ethnicity), level of change of the appeal (individual or social), and level of cultural tailoring (surface level tailoring in the form of matching character gender and race/ethnicity with target audience versus deep structural tailoring in the form of appealing to values is an effective message strategy). The highest-rated videos were then validated by a sample of the target audience using a quantitative survey and qualitative comments (N = 76). The results inform theorizing on message tailoring and provide a validated pool of culturally relevant messages intended both to reduce intentions to consume sugary beverages and to engage in social change actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Zhou
- Department of Public Health, University of California
Merced, Merced, USA
| | - A. Susana Ramírez
- Department of Public Health, University of California
Merced, Merced, USA
| | - Deepti Chittamuru
- Department of Public Health, University of California
Merced, Merced, USA
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Ethics for Mental Health Influencers: MFTs as Public Social Media Personalities. CONTEMPORARY FAMILY THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10591-021-09632-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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17
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Lee C, McLean MJ, Huang CJ, Nguyen Zarndt A, Aikin KJ, Rausch P, Cohen BR, Delahanty J, Sholly DM, Slavit WI, Carlton ED. The FDA's Diverse and Dynamic Activities in the Social and Behavioral Sciences: Advancing and Supporting Health Equity. J Prim Care Community Health 2021; 12:21501327211004735. [PMID: 33764795 PMCID: PMC8772347 DOI: 10.1177/21501327211004735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The U.S. encompasses a heterogenous mix of people and health disparities exist for various subpopulations, such as minorities, women, people with limited English proficiency, those with low socioeconomic status, and other underserved groups. Differences in health outcomes arise in part due to inequalities and injustices rooted in biological, social, and structural factors. Because the origins of health disparities are multifactorial, the approaches to reduce, or even eliminate them, must be multifactorial as well. The social and behavioral sciences are well poised to address the myriad and complex factors that affect health outcomes, including those at the individual level (eg, individuals' behaviors, attitudes, and beliefs), the neighborhood level (eg, housing), the community level (eg, cultural values and norms), and the policy level (eg, public policies that influence healthcare funding and access to healthcare resources and educational materials). In addition, the social and behavioral sciences (1) help equip government agencies with the perspectives and tools needed to promote health equity and (2) contribute to rigorous, evidence-based solutions for public health issues, such as disparities found in childhood vaccination rates, childhood obesity, tobacco use, and access to health information technology. The FDA, in particular, actively conducts social and behavioral sciences research to guide the Agency's efforts to advance and support health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Lee
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Paula Rausch
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Ewa D. Carlton
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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Nguyen N, Holmes LM, Kim M, Ling PM. Using Peer Crowd Affiliation to Address Dual Use of Cigarettes and E-Cigarettes among San Francisco Bay Area Young Adults: A Cross Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7643. [PMID: 33092106 PMCID: PMC7588881 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17207643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Given the emerging tobacco landscape, dual use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes has increased among young adults, but little is known about its associated factors. Peer crowds, defined as macro-level connections between individuals with similar core values (e.g., "Hip Hop" describing a group that prefers hip hop music and values strength, honor, and respect), are a promising way to understand tobacco use patterns. We examined associations between peer crowds and tobacco use patterns by using data from a cross sectional survey of 1340 young adults in the San Francisco Bay Area in 2014. Outcomes were the past 30-day use of: neither cigarettes nor e-cigarettes; cigarettes but not e-cigarettes; e-cigarettes but not cigarettes; and both cigarettes and e-cigarettes. Peer crowds included Hipster, Hip Hop, Country, Partier, Homebody, and Young Professional. Multinomial regression analysis indicated that peer crowds were significantly associated with different tobacco use patterns. Compared to Young Professionals, Hip Hop and Hipster crowds were more likely to dual use; Hipsters were more likely to use e-cigarettes only, and Country participants were more likely to smoke cigarettes only. These findings suggest that tobacco control campaigns and cessation interventions should be tailored to different young adult peer crowds and address poly-tobacco use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nhung Nguyen
- Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (M.K.); (P.M.L.)
| | - Louisa M. Holmes
- Departments of Geography & Demography, and the Social Science Research Institute, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA;
| | - Minji Kim
- Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (M.K.); (P.M.L.)
| | - Pamela M. Ling
- Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (M.K.); (P.M.L.)
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Navarro MA, O'Brien EK, Ganz O, Hoffman L. Influencer prevalence and role on cigar brand Instagram pages. Tob Control 2020; 30:e33-e36. [PMID: 33046583 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2020-055994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Influencers market products for tobacco companies on social media. This is the first study to systematically examine leading cigar brands' use of influencers on their brand Instagram pages. METHODS We identified 24 leading cigar brands, using July 2017-June 2018 US retail data. We identified cigar brands that had official appearing Instagram pages, with at least one influencer in the past 20 posts. We coded characteristics of the past three posts from each of five brand pages that contained influencers, such as setting and what the influencer was doing. Finally, we described influencer characteristics. RESULTS Approximately one-third of the 24 brands had official Instagram accounts with at least one influencer in the past 20 posts. We identified 28 influencers, typically people of colour from the hip-hop music industry, some with millions of followers. Influencers included Bella Thorne (@bellathorne), Shaquille O'Neal (@shaq) and T.I. (@troubleman31). Brands' posts that contained influencers showed the influencer using/holding a product, wearing branded merchandise or appearing in photos with a brand watermark. Three brands' pages posted sponsored event photos (ie, concerts and events using branded backgrounds). DISCUSSION Cigar brands commonly use influencers to market their products on brand Instagram pages. Results are consistent with previous findings that cigar companies' marketing may target younger African Americans and highlight the potential utility of education campaigns that similarly engage influencers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Antonio Navarro
- Office of Health Communication and Education, Center for Tobacco Products, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Erin Keely O'Brien
- Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Ollie Ganz
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Health Behavior, Society and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Leah Hoffman
- Communication Research, Strategy & Outreach, Fors Marsh Group, Arlington, Virginia, USA
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Stalgaitis CA, Djakaria M, Jordan JW. The Vaping Teenager: Understanding the Psychographics and Interests of Adolescent Vape Users to Inform Health Communication Campaigns. Tob Use Insights 2020; 13:1179173X20945695. [PMID: 32843842 PMCID: PMC7418471 DOI: 10.1177/1179173x20945695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Adolescent vaping continues to rise, yet little is known about teen vape users beyond demographics. Effective intervention requires a deeper understanding of the psychographics and interests of adolescent vape users to facilitate targeted communication campaigns. Methods: We analyzed the 2017-2018 weighted cross-sectional online survey data from Virginia high school students (N = 1594) to identify and describe subgroups of adolescents who vaped. Participants reported 30-day vape use, identification with 5 peer crowds (Alternative, Country, Hip Hop, Mainstream, Popular), social prioritization, agreement with personal values statements, social media and smartphone use, and television and event preferences. We compared vaping rates and frequency by peer crowd using a chi-square analysis with follow-up testing to identify higher-risk crowds and confirmed associations using binary and multinomial logistic regression models with peer crowd scores predicting vaping, controlling for demographics. We then used chi-square and t tests to describe the psychographics, media use, and interests of higher-risk peer crowds and current vape users within those crowds. Results: Any current vaping was the highest among those with Hip Hop peer crowd identification (25.4%), then Popular (21.3%). Stronger peer crowd identification was associated with increased odds of any current vaping for both crowds, vaping on 1 to 19 days for both crowds, and vaping on 20 to 30 days for Hip Hop only. Compared with other peer crowds and non-users, Hip Hop and Popular youth and current vape users reported greater social prioritization and agreement with values related to being social and fashionable. Hip Hop and Popular youth and current vape users reported heavy Instagram and Snapchat use, as well as unique television show and event preferences. Conclusions: Hip Hop and Popular adolescents are most likely to vape and should be priority audiences for vaping prevention campaigns. Findings should guide the development of targeted health communication campaigns delivered via carefully designed media strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mayo Djakaria
- Research Department, Rescue Agency, San Diego, CA, USA
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