#EndoTwitter: a four-year (2019-2023) analysis of a global endocrinology-focused hashtag’s use on X (formerly Twitter)

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to explore the role of the hashtag #EndoTwitter on the social media platform X by examining its geographical distribution, user demographics, engagement patterns, and post sentiments. With the increasing prevalence of endocrine and metabolic diseases, rapid knowledge exchange is essential. #EndoTwitter provides a unique communication medium for healthcare professionals, researchers, advocacy groups, journalists, and patients; however, its impact has not yet been systematically studied.

Methods: The Fedica research analytics tool was used to analyze X posts containing #EndoTwitter from July 1, 2019, to July 1, 2023. Parameters assessed included post volume, impressions, sentiment, co-occurring hashtags, and geolocation.

Results: A total of 58,392 posts with #EndoTwitter were retrieved from around 21,000 users, generating 46.9 million impressions. These posts originated mainly from the United States (N = 29,546, 50.6%), followed by India (N = 6,567, 11.2%) and Mexico (N = 3,310, 5.7%). The top co-occurring hashtags included #MedTwitter, #Diabetes, and #NAFLD. Sentiment analysis revealed 16% positive sentiment, 8% negative, and 76% neutral among all posts.

Conclusions: #EndoTwitter has the potential to foster evidence-based information sharing and inclusive communities, making it a valuable tool for endocrinology advocacy and patient care. Future research should explore specific post content to deepen insights into its impact.

Keywords

social media / hashtag / EndoTwitter / endocrinology / X / Twitter

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