WHATSAPP AND HEALTH INFORMATION CONSUMPTION AMONG RESIDENTS IN OMAGBA COMMUNITY, ONITSHA NORTH L.G.A. OF ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA: USAGE AND CONSEQUENCES
Authors:
Ojiakor, Ifeoma. C. PhD, Adeline Nkwam-uwaoma PhD & Nwaozor, Augustus Onyekachi
Abstract:
This study evaluated the motivation and consequences of shared viral WhatsApp digital messages among health information consumers residents in Omagba Community, Onitsha North L.G.A. Anambra State. Digital experiences in health information consumption of selected WhatsApp users were elicited among a heterogeneous sample. The participants were 13 (7 males and 6 females)whose ages ranged from 23 years to 56 years with a mean age of 34.50yrs and standard deviation of 2.60. The participants were selected through a simple random sampling technique whereby only participants with three or more health-related Whatsapp messages in their mobile phones were selected. Anchored on technological determinism theory which emphasized the dyadic influence of technology and social structures/culture; the study sought among other things the relationship between WhatsApp digital application and health information, the factors associated with health information consumption and behavioural consequences of WhatsApp shared health information. A qualitative design was used in data collection and themes which emerged from the in-depth interview were analyzed. The result indicates that WhatsApp users who receive more online health information are more likely to share the message with their friends and contacts and are willing to practice and experiment with the suggested health tips. The result further indicates that certain health risks and hazards could emanate as a result of this practice including physical injuries, allergies, coma and even death. It is recommended that the Ministry of Health in State and Federal Government should create enabling online media laws to protect the spread of unevaluated viral health messages which can be a weapon of mass destruction if the information which is propagated lacks health merit. There is a need also for future studies to look at other aspects of the problem.