A recent analysis of health-related Google searches finds that searches for health topics are far more frequent at the beginning of the week than later in the week -- a recurring pattern that might help devise strategies for improved public health.
SFI Omidyar Fellow Ben Althouse is a co-author of the study, along with researchers from San Diego State University, Johns Hopkins University, and the Monday Campaigns.
“These consistent rhythms in healthy searches likely reflect something about our collective mindset, and understanding these rhythms could lead to insights about the nature of health behavior change,” says Althouse.
Read the paper in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine (April 21, 2014)
Read the news release from San Diego State University (April 21, 2014)