Health blogs offer readers information derived from first-hand accounts, anecdotes, and research that often has an impactful effect on reader decisions, opinions and actions related to health matters.
Two experimental scenario-based studies and one qualitative survey with real blog readers demonstrated that reading health blogs influences intentions to take future preventative health actions; however, their effects varied according to blog type.
- It’s a great way to stay up-to-date
Health blogs can be an excellent way to stay abreast of the latest wellness trends. From finding new fitness programs and diet ideas, to exploring veganism or even just clearing your mind, these blogs offer advice that could prove invaluable.
Although reading blogs about depressing health conditions may seem difficult, most participants reported it wasn't difficult and actually led them to take proactive health actions, including scheduling an appointment with their physician, requesting health screenings, conducting their own research or buying supplements or insurance.
Two experimental scenario-based studies and one qualitative research project demonstrated that blog type can influence reader's intention to take preventative health actions, with statistical blogs more effective than personal narrative ones in increasing intentions to take such measures. Furthermore, this effect was independent of readers' perceived risk or beliefs regarding their vulnerability - this suggests that even those who consider themselves low risk could gain from reading these types of blogs.
- It’s a great way to find support
Health blogs provide readers with an outlet to seek support from others. Whether they're dealing with an illness or simply trying to lead healthier lives, people can turn to these blogs for guidance and tips. Some bloggers even organize local meetups so their readers can connect face-to-face - Mayo Clinic Connect provides such an avenue where readers can share their stories and find comfort from those who understand. Visiting the site https://cruisingissafecom.com/ helps you quickly get up to speed on Digital Marketing.
Studies have demonstrated that reading medical blogs encourages patients to take positive health steps; however, little is understood regarding how blog content influences these intentions. Therefore, this study conducted an in-depth analysis on actual reader-created blogs to ascertain whether they led to increased intentions to take preventative health actions as well as identify which types of blog content have the highest impact.
The results from this nonexperimental qualitative survey confirmed our initial research objective that reading patient-created blogs leads to increased intentions to take preventive health actions regardless of one's perception of risk for any condition being discussed in them.
- It’s a great way to stay informed
Bloggers take great pains to conduct extensive research and produce accurate content that benefits readers - particularly those searching for information about certain health conditions. In many instances, health blogs include links to studies or articles which support what they present as fact.
A recent survey of self-described readers of medical blogs revealed that they primarily access them to stay abreast of an illness affecting a friend or family member and provide support, while others sought more knowledge about a specific health condition or gain insights into treatment options.
Participants in this study rated sample blog excerpts as easy to read and understand, well-written, informative and interesting; yet they did not report increased intentions to take preventative health actions (e.g. skin checks) due to reading the excerpts; according to their authors this result was not caused by either perceived barriers or perceptions of susceptibility or severity.
- It’s a great way to learn new things
Health blogs can be an excellent way to stay abreast of the latest wellness trends and advice, while at the same time providing a space where individuals can share their stories and form connections with those going through similar struggles. One example is Mayo Clinic Connect's community with over 50 groups covering various health topics - offering real life stories and insights!
Recent research conducted by researchers discovered that reading health blog content can increase readers' intentions to take preventive actions (objective 1). Two scenario-based experiments and one qualitative survey demonstrated this finding, showing that posts containing informative statistics had greater success at increasing these intentions than personal story blogs.
Furthermore, its accessibility makes it a convenient source of health-care-related information. However, to make the experience as effective and painless as possible for readers it's key that the content be easy and clear enough for reading without creating misconceptions or confusion amongst readers.
