Social media in inflammatory bowel disease: the patient and physician perspective

Abstract

Purpose of review: Social media use by patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and their respective providers continues to increase, promoting disease awareness and scholarship. In this review article, we summarize the current literature regarding social media use and IBD, discuss both the patient and physician perspective, and provide guidance to avoid commonly encountered pitfalls.

Recent findings: Patients and providers commonly rely on social media to share medical information, advocate for improved IBD care, and to network and collaborate on common research interests. This shift from more traditional formats of education and networking continues to grow exponentially, and even more rapidly so during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Summary: Social media use in the IBD community will continue to grow and lead to further innovation. Providers should be aware of social media as a valuable tool for their patients and themselves.