Relationships among health-related social media use, knowledge, worry, and cervical cancer screening: A cross-sectional study of US females.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the relationship between health-related social media use and HPV-related health knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP).

METHOD: Data were derived from a subset of the national cohort from the 2022 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS 6), including only women aged 21 to 65 years old (n = 2013). Ordinary least squares regression and structural equation modeling were used to answer the research question and test hypotheses.

RESULTS: Participants with a family history of cancer, higher education, and White showed more HPV knowledge. Older females were associated with lower HPV knowledge, less worry and fewer timely cervical cancer screening. Additionally, HPV knowledge positively predicted worry and cervical cancer screening. Health-related social media use positively predicted HPV knowledge, worry, and cervical cancer screening.

CONCLUSION: This study identified populations with HPV knowledge and hesitated cervical cancer screening and tested hypothesized models that combine social media use with the KAP survey.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Future health interventions should strategically leverage the role of social media to enhance public awareness of HPV knowledge and cancer concerns. By promoting HPV knowledge and awareness, such interventions can subsequently encourage timely cervical cancer screening.