A pioneering study led by the University of South Australia has revealed that health-related podcasts can significantly enhance health knowledge, increase exercise levels and boost healthy eating habits. Researchers found that these on-demand audio resources can effectively promote positive health behaviors, making them a valuable tool in public health interventions.
Podcasts dominate contemporary media consumption, weaving their way into the daily routines of millions. With the average individual dedicating over five hours weekly to podcast listening, one question looms large: Can podcasts foster healthier habits?
A new study led by the University of South Australia (UniSA), published in the journal Digital Health, suggests the answer is a resounding “yes.”
The researchers reviewed data from 38 studies, concluding that health-related podcasts significantly boost health knowledge, exercise levels and healthy eating practices.
The surge in podcast popularity is undeniable. In the United States alone, the podcast audience is projected to grow to 160 million listeners in 2024.
UniSA researcher Beth Robins highlights the transformative power of health-focused podcasts.
“Health and well-being podcasts have the unique ability to convey a wide range of health topics to a variety of listeners, but in a very accessible way,” Robins, a research assistant at UniSA Allied Health & Human Performance, said in a news release. “Not only are podcasts typically chatty and conversational – which makes them easy to listen to and understand – but they’re also available at the touch of a button, so they’re extremely convenient, portable and can be listened to at any time of the day.”
The study identified that the primary motivations for engaging with health podcasts include acquiring information, understanding mental health issues better and seeking entertainment.
Ben Singh, a research fellow at UniSA Allied Health & Human Performance, underscores the advantage podcasts have in delivering critical public health messages.
“Our study is the first to review the evidence about health podcasts for the general population,” he said in the news release. “From this study, we know that podcasts are highly valued for their authenticity and reliability, as well as their impactful, experience-focussed, and narrative-driven content.”
Podcasts’ adaptability to users’ lifestyles marks a significant edge over other health intervention methods.
Singh emphasizes their versatility, adding: “[Podcasts are] valued for their ability to be consumed at the user’s pace and in a setting that suits them – whether that’s while relaxing at home or walking the dog – and this aligns with increasing consumer demand for health resources that are both informative and adaptable to individual lifestyles.”
While further research is necessary, early findings suggest health podcasts are highly engaging and effective at promoting positive health behaviors.
“It’s certainly a watch this space,” Singh added.
Discover the potential of podcasts to enhance public health and stay tuned for more developments in this evolving field.