WhatsApp and Health Communication: Its Impact on Promoting Children's Oral Healthcare Among Parents

Abstract

Little is known about the use of WhatsApp in promoting oral health among parents or caregivers. Therefore, the survey examined the impact of social media in disseminating health infographic messages in supporting children's oral health from the parent's perspective. The group of respondents read or saw posts or messages related to health education through Facebook (n=85, 31.9%), WhatsApp (n=68, 25.2%), and YouTube (n=61, 22.6%). There was a significant difference before and after the infographics were sent to the respondent, and it was found to be statistically significant (P-value <0.001). As a social media platform for oral health education purposes, WhatsApp appeared to improve parents' knowledge and behaviors towards their children's oral health. Most respondents perceived WhatsApp to be beneficial. Knowing how people use social media now could help health communication efforts be more effective and equitable.