Global Social Media Use Among Rheumatology Professionals: The EULAR SoMeR Study Group survey

Abstract

Background/purpose Social media (SM) has become an indispensable tool in healthcare, providing platforms for networking and education. However, its use presents challenges including misinformation, professional boundaries and platform-specific limitations. Building on the EULAR EMEUNET survey, we aimed to characterise SM utilisation within rheumatology globally. Methods The EULAR study group on social media (SoMeR) designed a 30-item survey, which was validated, translated into six languages and distributed via mailing lists and SM channels of EMEUNET, PANLAR Joven, AFLAR and APLAR Young Rheumatology. Analysis employed Human Development Index (HDI) and Internet Freedom Index (IFI) to assess digital divides. Results Among 597 respondents from 59 countries (42.2% female), 92.3% used SM professionally. Female professionals demonstrated significantly higher SM use (94.4% vs 88.8%, p=0.02). Knowledge acquisition was the primary driver (73.0%), with 67.2% using SM for academic research updates. SM adoption varied regionally (Europe 97.3% vs Asia-Pacific 88.6%). Lower HDI regions reported more connectivity issues (28.1% vs 16.7%), while higher HDI cited legal restrictions (24.4%). Countries with restricted internet freedom paradoxically reported higher positive SM impact (4.04/5 vs 3.86/5, p<0.01). Cross-cohort analysis (2015–2023) revealed trends toward professional applications and away from networking functions. Over half (56.9%) reported feeling overwhelmed by SM content, particularly in South America and Africa (73.3%/70.3%, p<0.01). Interest in digital communication was high (83.3%), with webinars being the preferred format (41.1%). Conclusions This survey demonstrates SM’s integral role in rheumatology with significant regional variations, calling for targeted interventions addressing connectivity and legal concerns while maintaining professionalism and scientific integrity.