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Author Spotlight: Investigating the Mechanisms and Inducing Models of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: July 5, 2024
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Top 100 #PCOS influencers: Understanding who, why and how online content for PCOS is influenced
Maiar Elhariry1, Kashish Malhotra2, Michelle Solomon3
1College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Frontiers in Endocrinology
|December 26, 2022
Summary
Social media influencers raise awareness for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) but content is concentrated in high-income nations. More support is needed to develop influencers globally and combat misinformation.
Area of Science:
- Social Media Analysis
- Public Health Communication
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Social media platforms are increasingly influential in shaping public understanding and behavior regarding health conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Social media influencers are emerging as key figures in disseminating PCOS-related information, impacting patient decision-making and experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and analyze the leading global social media (Twitter) influencers and organizations advocating for PCOS.
- To explore the motivations, journeys, and support systems of these prominent PCOS social media influencers.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive analysis of the top 100 PCOS influencers and organizations was conducted using social network analysis tools (Cronycle, Symplur, SocioViz) between July and August 2022.
- Semi-structured interviews with identified influencers were performed to understand their motivations and content delivery support, followed by thematic inductive analysis of anonymized transcripts.
Main Results:
- The majority of identified PCOS influencers and organizations (95% and 80%, respectively) originate from high-income countries, indicating a global inequity in PCOS advocacy.
- Influencers recognize social media's power for PCOS awareness but also acknowledge its significant disadvantages and the need for caution.
- Most influencers are driven by personal experiences, working voluntarily to combat misinformation and improve outcomes for women with PCOS, with limited current collaboration.
Conclusions:
- A significant global disparity exists in the online presence of #PCOS influencers.
- Establishing evidence-based standards and support systems is crucial for fostering influencer development, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
- Enhanced influencer networks can effectively counter health misinformation and provide culturally relevant guidance for PCOS management.
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