RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Dating apps as health allies? Examining the opportunities and challenges of dating apps as partners in public health
JF Medical Humanities
JO J Med Humanit
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Institute of Medical Ethics
SP 594
OP 597
DO 10.1136/medhum-2024-012901
VO 50
IS 3
A1 Garcia-Iglesias, Jaime
A1 Heaphy, Brian
A1 Mowlabocus, Sharif
A1 Yodovich, Neta
A1 Nagington, Maurice
A1 Patton, Karissa
A1 Atherton, Sophie
A1 Ford, Andrea
YR 2024
UL http://mh.bmj.com/content/50/3/594.abstract
AB In recent years, dating apps have become important allies in public health. In this paper, we explore the implications of partnering with dating apps for health promotion. We consider the opportunities and challenges inherent in these collaborations, paying special attention to privacy, trust, and user care in a digital environment.Despite their potential as targeted health promotion tools, dating apps raise significant ethical concerns, including the commodification of user data and privacy breaches, which highlight the complexities of blending healthcare initiatives with for-profit digital platforms. Furthermore, the paper delves into issues of discrimination, harassment and unequal access within these apps, factors which can undermine public health efforts.We develop a nuanced framework, emphasising the development of transparent data policies, the decoupling of content moderation from health initiatives and a commitment to combat discrimination. We underscore the importance of embedding app-based health initiatives within broader care pathways, ensuring comprehensive support beyond the digital domain. This essay offers vital insights for public health practitioners, app developers and policymakers navigating the intersection of digital innovation and healthcare.There are no data in this work.