Researchers at Adelaide University are about to commence a two-year research study with the Lyell McEwin Hospital in Adelaide’s north that will aim to ascertain how social networks and new communication technologies influence behavior relating to health.

 

Chief investigator Dr Andrew Skuse will lead a team of University of Adelaide health and social media experts working with pregnant women and new mothers from socially disadvantaged areas.

 

"The nature and use of media is changing rapidly," says Dr Skuse, a social anthropologist.

 

"Mobile technologies and social media applications such as Facebook and Twitter are revolutionising the way people stay in touch, organise their lives and also deal with their problems.

 

"In a health context, existing research tells us that traditional methods of communication - such as leaflets, posters and teaching - seldom lead to positive health outcomes

 

The first phase of the project, to be launched in December, will determine preferred media use among 80 pregnant women and new mothers in the Lyell McEwin Hospital.

 

Once that is established, hospital staff will tailor specific health messages to individual patients according to their preferred method of communication. These messages will relay information on diet and lifestyle that is critical to ensuring healthy birth weights.

 

"Low birth weight is a significant contributory factor to health problems in later life," says Associate Professor Vicki Clifton, a member of the research project. "If we can develop a communication package which prevents this, the benefits will be immeasurable."