Does the Use of Social Media Affect Online Health Information-Seeking Behaviors among Underserved African Americans in Rural Alabama?

PURPOSE

This study aimed (1) to investigate levels of technology device access and social media use among African Americans in rural Alabama, (2) to examine the prevalence of online health information-seeking behaviors, and (3) to identify associations of technology device access and social media use with online health information-seeking behaviors.

METHODS

A convenience sample of 185 African Americans aged 18 and older was recruited from a rural county in Alabama. Multilinear regression was conducted to examine the associations.

RESULTS

Nearly 60% of participants had access to the internet, smartphone, and tablets/computers. The prevalence of online health information-seeking behaviors was low. Technology device access was not associated with online health information-seeking behaviors, while more social networking sites were associated with more online health information-seeking behaviors.

CONCLUSION

Public health interventions are needed to promote internet use for health purposes among rural African Americans. Offline health information services should also target those lacking internet access.