Health-Related Message Boards/Chat Rooms on the Web: Discussion Content and Implications for Pharmaceutical Sponsorships

Abstract

This content analysis study examined health-related message boards to better understand who is using this on-line health information and support device and what topics they are discussing. Besides needing to understand this support and coping mechanism for individuals, this has become an increasingly important topic for health communicators to understand because the Health and Human Services' (HHS) Inspector General recently gave permission to a pharmaceutical manufacturer for sponsorship of a disease management chat room. Very little research has been done on the content of these message boards/chat rooms. Key findings include that the most commonly discussed medical topics were medical treatments and drugs (often specific brands) and that these boards are clearly important sources of information and emotional support. Implication and future research are discussed.