Evaluating the efficacy of digital media platforms in disseminating public health information: A global review with implications for South Africa
1
Health Studies, University Of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
This study employs non-empirical, systematic review design; to explore how digital media platforms support public health education and awareness, with consideration of implications for the South African context.
AIM:
To explore the use of digital media in disseminating public health information and its implications for improving citizens’ awareness and health literacy. Setting: although the review draws on global evidence, the analysis highlights relevance for South Africa’s digital communication landscape.
METHODS:
the review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis guidelines. Comprehensive search across various databases, included Google Scholar, EBSCOhost, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Sabinet, ProQuest, Cambridge Core, Scopus, Africawide information, Nursing/Academic Edition, Humanities and Social Sciences Index Retrospective Humanities Sources, MasterFILE Premier, MEDLINE, and SociINDEX was conducted. Studies were selected based in inclusion criteria, resulting in 15 peer reviewed full text articles published between January 2019 and March 2023. Quality appraisal was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument (QARI), and findings were synthesised thematically.
RESULTS:
Findings show that digital media use was associated with reduced misinformation, strengthening social support networks, enhancing the reach and efficiency of health information dissemination, and promoting positive health behaviours. Evidence also indicated improvements in health knowledge and engagement across diverse populations; however, challenges such as digital literacy gaps, unequal access, and algorithmic bias persist.
CONCLUSIONS:
Digital media represents a transformative tool for public health communication. When strategically implemented, it enhances awareness, supports behaviour change, and strengthens public engagement with health information. Contribution. This review highlights the need for collaboration between health professionals and digital communication specialists to optimise digital health strategies. It highlights policy imperatives such as improving digital literacy, ensuring equitable access, strengthening regulation of online health information, and fostering public-private partnerships. These actions are essential for leveraging digital media effectively and improving health outcomes in South Africa.
This study employs non-empirical, systematic review design; to explore how digital media platforms support public health education and awareness, with consideration of implications for the South African context.
AIM:
To explore the use of digital media in disseminating public health information and its implications for improving citizens’ awareness and health literacy. Setting: although the review draws on global evidence, the analysis highlights relevance for South Africa’s digital communication landscape.
METHODS:
the review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis guidelines. Comprehensive search across various databases, included Google Scholar, EBSCOhost, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Sabinet, ProQuest, Cambridge Core, Scopus, Africawide information, Nursing/Academic Edition, Humanities and Social Sciences Index Retrospective Humanities Sources, MasterFILE Premier, MEDLINE, and SociINDEX was conducted. Studies were selected based in inclusion criteria, resulting in 15 peer reviewed full text articles published between January 2019 and March 2023. Quality appraisal was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument (QARI), and findings were synthesised thematically.
RESULTS:
Findings show that digital media use was associated with reduced misinformation, strengthening social support networks, enhancing the reach and efficiency of health information dissemination, and promoting positive health behaviours. Evidence also indicated improvements in health knowledge and engagement across diverse populations; however, challenges such as digital literacy gaps, unequal access, and algorithmic bias persist.
CONCLUSIONS:
Digital media represents a transformative tool for public health communication. When strategically implemented, it enhances awareness, supports behaviour change, and strengthens public engagement with health information. Contribution. This review highlights the need for collaboration between health professionals and digital communication specialists to optimise digital health strategies. It highlights policy imperatives such as improving digital literacy, ensuring equitable access, strengthening regulation of online health information, and fostering public-private partnerships. These actions are essential for leveraging digital media effectively and improving health outcomes in South Africa.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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