Social Media Boosts Awareness of Prostate Cancer Genetics

In this study, researchers explored how social media can be used to raise awareness about the genetic aspects of prostate cancer (PCa) and its connection to other cancers, such as breast cancer. They aimed to identify which social media messages were most engaging and to assess public knowledge and attitudes toward PCa genetic testing through an online survey.

Understanding genetic factors in PCa is crucial for early detection and management. However, many individuals are unaware of these genetic links. By leveraging social media, the study aimed to educate the public and potentially increase participation in genetic testing. This is significant for healthcare providers, patients, and families, as it could lead to better informed decisions and improved cancer risk assessment.

The researchers developed a social media campaign targeting men and women over 35 in the United States. They tested eight images and messages on Facebook over six days to see which combinations garnered the most attention. The most engaging message led to an online survey that assessed participants' knowledge of PCa genetics and their attitudes toward genetic testing. The survey was completed by 875 individuals.

The campaign showed that social media is effective for spreading awareness about PCa genetics. The message linking breast cancer and PCa through gene mutations was the most engaging, reaching nearly 59,000 people. Survey results indicated that 75.2% of participants agreed genetics play a role in PCa development, and 84% wanted to know their genetic predisposition to PCa. However, 61% expressed privacy concerns regarding genetic testing.

The study suggests that social media can be a powerful tool for educating the public about PCa genetics, potentially leading to increased genetic testing and early cancer detection. It highlights the need for targeted educational campaigns to address privacy concerns and improve understanding of genetic risks.

The researchers recommend further studies to explore effective calls to action within social media campaigns, aiming to enhance engagement and uptake of PCa genetic testing across diverse populations. They emphasize the importance of tailoring messages to specific audiences to maximize impact.

This research was supported by the Prostate Cancer Foundation Valor Challenge Award (19CHAL05). Yale University also provided funding and support for this research.