Public’s Attitudes Toward Health Information on Twitter: A Cross-sectional Survey Based on the Saudi Population

Health information dissemination through social media networks has transformed the process of communication between health practitioners, patients, and the public. Twitter is one of the most commonly used social media networks in Saudi Arabia for sharing health information. However, the reliability of health information on Twitter has been questioned by some skeptics, thereby placing the public at a significant health risk. This study was conducted to assess the attitudes of the general population of Saudi Arabia towards health information sought from Twitter. Of the 384 total respondents, 199 (51.8%) considered using Twitter as a source of health information as a positive experience due to its ease of use and the accessibility of information (131, 66.0%). The study found that respondents have great concern about nutrition/weight loss (229, 59.6%), healthy lifestyle (225, 58.6%), and getting a better understanding of health care misconceptions (168, 43%). Most of the respondents (167, 43.5%) were satisfied using Twitter as a source of health information. However, a few respondents experienced harm to their health as a result of false medical advice (2, 0.5%) and false health information (2, 0.5%) they found on Twitter. This study concludes that Twitter is mainly useful in obtaining health knowledge for maintaining good health, preventing illness, and curing illnesses or diseases. However, the public must take extra caution when obtaining health information from Twitter. It is essential for Twitter users seeking medical information to also seek professional medical advice or consultation, as necessary, to prevent a significant health risk.