Abstract
Exploring the Feasibility of Using Social Media to Increase Awareness and Discussion around Hepatitis B among Chinese and Vietnamese Philadelphians
Chari Cohen, DrPH, MPH1, Julia Alber, PhD, MPH2, Catherine Freeland, MPH1, Kristine Alarcon, MPH3, Suzanne Grossman, MSc, DrPH(c)4, Amy Bleakley, PhD, MPH2 and Raina Merchant, MD, MSHP2
(1)Hepatitis B Foundation, Doylestown, PA, (2)University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, (3)Drexel University/Hepatitis B Foundation, Doylestown, PA, (4)Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
APHA 2017 Annual Meeting & Expo (Nov. 4 - Nov. 8)
In the United States, an estimated 1 in 20 individuals are infected with the hepatitis B virus. Among Asian Americans, chronic hepatitis is the primary risk factor for approximately 80 to 85% of liver cancer cases. Within Philadelphia, 8-12% of local Chinese and Vietnamese residents are estimated to be living with chronic hepatitis B. Social media can be used to deliver culturally-appropriate messages and engage at-risk population for health promotion initiatives. The purpose of this study was to understand the feasibility of using social media to increase awareness and discussion around hepatitis B, among Chinese and Vietnamese first generation (foreign-born) and second generation Philadelphians aged 18-29, to ultimately improve screening rates. Key interviews were conducted with 42 residents and seven leaders in the Philadelphia area to assess current usage of, and perceptions towards, using social media to engage with other community members and discuss relevant health issues. A thematic analysis resulted in two themes referenced by leaders including the potential challenges and opportunities related to using social media to increase awareness. Six themes were identified from resident interviews including positives/negatives of social media, potential participation in a social media campaign, social media usage, content shared, and social connections. Facebook, Instagram, and SnapChat were identified as the most common platforms, with the majority of participants using English for social media communication. Results will be used to inform the development of a social media program aimed at increasing hepatitis B screening.
Communication and informatics Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs Public health or related education