Research in Health Communication

Dr. Marco Bardus’ research is in the field of health communication, a discipline within communication studies, at the crossroads of behavioural sciences, medical and health sciences, and public health. The overarching goal of his research is to understand how healthy behaviors can be influenced through the use of technology-based interventions and persuasive communication strategies.

In line with Healthy People 2020 objectives, the fundamental goal of Marco’s research in health communication is to address health-related and social issues in order to improve people’s health and wellbeing, reduce disease burden and health inequalities, promoting the principles of sustainability.

Marco’s research in health communication focuses on eHealth and mHealth applications for health behavior change and health promotion. His research interests revolve around the use of smartphones (text message reminders, mobile apps), Web 2.0 technology, and wearable devices, with the overall goal of preventing non-communicable diseases and obesity-related issues.

His research has both practical and theoretical applications. Practical implications pertain to public health, as this research can inform the development of policies and programs for behavior change. Theoretical implications can be applied to communication and media research and in behavioral sciences. Knowing what behavior change strategies work best may allow enhancing the theoretical foundations of health behavior change models and theories.