Media Campaign for Lupus Awareness

Jessica L. Altice, MAEd

Health Problem

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the body to produce antibodies that cause tissue damage and inflammation. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the most serious and fatal form of lupus.

Peak occurrence is between ages 15-40.

It is estimated that 1.5 million people are affected.

Awareness is one of the biggest issues surrounding lupus.

Theoretical BasisAgenda Setting Theory

Core AssumptionsAgenda setting is the creation of public awareness and concern by the news media.

Assumptions

The press and media do not reflect reality; they filter and shape it.

Media concentration on a few issues and subjects leads the public to perceive those issues as more important than other issues.

Formative Research

What I wanted to know...

What forms of media are most effective?

What were the demographics of the population?

Their current knowledge of lupus.

Who are reputable sources of health information?

Data was gathered from surveys via Survey Monkey.

Formative Research Results

All 7 participants were Black women ages 21-29 with a Bachelors or Masters degree.

5 of them were not familiar with lupus.

They all preferred to get information from a physician.

The most effective forms of health communication are websites, posters, and videos.

Faces of Lupus...

They are women just like you.For more information follow @LupusAwareness1 on

Twitter

Formative Evaluation Results

Flyers are not likely to be effective.

Add more color to the flyer and consider making it a poster.

Place flyer in an unexpected place.

The flyer was a little too vague.

No changes were made to the Twitter page.

Final Product

Lupus Awareness Poster

Twitter Page

http://twitter.com/LupusAwareness1