Use of Health-Related Online Support Groups: Population Data from the California Health Interview Survey Complementary and Alternative Medicine Study (Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication)

This purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of online support group (OSG) use by those with chronic health problems and to identify characteristics associated with use of OSGs and face-to-face groups. Prevalence of use of OSGs for those with chronic health conditions is low, but Internet-based health-related services have potential to increase the reach of support services for those living with chronic conditions.

This study uses data from the 2001 California Health Interview Survey.

Publication Authors:

• Jason E. Owen
• Michael S. Goldstein, PhD
• Jennifer Lee
• Nancy Breen
• Julia Rowland