The potential influence of a social media intervention on risky sexual behavior and Chlamydia incidence

J Community Health Nurs. 2012;29(2):106-20. doi: 10.1080/07370016.2012.670579.

Abstract

The purpose of this descriptive pilot study was to evaluate an evidence-based social-networking intervention aimed at reducing the incidence of Chlamydia among 15- to 24-year-olds. The intervention consists of a Facebook site that addresses signs, symptoms, treatment, screening, and prevention of Chlamydia infection. Findings included a 23% self-reported increase in condom utilization, and a 54% reduction in positive Chlamydia cases among 15- to 17-year-olds. Study results support that social media may be an effective mechanism for information dissemination and the promotion of positive behavioral changes among this population.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Chlamydia Infections / prevention & control*
  • Condoms / statistics & numerical data
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Female
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Information Dissemination
  • Male
  • Pilot Projects
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sexual Behavior*
  • Social Media*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult