Social media : good or bad? Exploring the relationship between social media and individuals with chronic diseases

Abstract

Social media’s influence on popular culture is undeniable. Over 2.7 billion users subscribe, and a significant fraction access these platforms daily for news, peer engagement, and to explore cyberspace for information that may affect their lives. Individuals who suffer from chronic health conditions can find solace and empathy via virtual interaction with companions that share common symptoms. Social support and interaction contributes to health. Given the exponential cost arising from long-term care and treatment, social media platforms may be instrumental to deliver curative guidance and control expenditures. This paper examines how social media can improve health care delivery and raise quality of life for chronic illness patients.