Evaluating the Role of Social Media in Promoting Health-Oriented Lifestyles and Behavioral Change: A Health Management Approach

Abstract

This narrative review explores the role of social media in promoting health-oriented lifestyles and influencing behavioral change from a health management perspective. Social media platforms have emerged as powerful tools for disseminating health information, raising awareness, and engaging diverse audiences in health promotion activities. This review synthesizes findings from various studies to evaluate how social media impacts health behaviors, such as diet, physical activity, and smoking cessation, and highlights the contributions of health influencers and organizations in shaping public perceptions and behaviors. The review also examines the challenges associated with the use of social media for health promotion, including the spread of misinformation, disparities in digital access, and privacy concerns. Theoretical frameworks such as the Social Cognitive Theory and the Health Belief Model are applied to understand the mechanisms through which social media influences behavior. Additionally, emerging trends in AI-driven health content and the integration of social media with other digital health tools, such as mobile apps and telemedicine, are explored for their potential to enhance personalized health interventions. The review concludes with policy recommendations to improve the quality and reliability of health information on social media, emphasizing the need for ethical standards and digital literacy programs to address the digital divide. The findings underscore the importance of strategic management in leveraging social media for public health promotion, while addressing the associated risks, to maximize its potential in fostering healthier communities.