People frequently use the Internet to discuss their well-being in helpful ways, but it’s also a breeding ground for misinformation.
According to one study, dozens of videos containing health misinformation may be posted to social media in a 24-hour cycle. Specifically, the researchers found that about 44% of videos on sinuses uploaded to TikTok in 24 hours contained false information.
And that’s just one example of medical misinformation online. Unfortunately, incorrect information can spread rapidly, making it difficult to challenge. However, practitioners have the responsibility to address harmful trends and encourage healthy behaviors.
Examples of Potentially Dangerous Trends
Although the Internet can help share health information, it hosts many dangerous claims, too. Examples of health misinformation on social media include:
- Fake cancer treatments
- Anti-vax sentiments
- “Alternative” birth control
- Supplement stacking
- Raw milk consumption
- Bee venom therapy
- Drinking diluted borax
Other popular trends with no proven benefits include dry scooping, mouth taping, and putting garlic in the nose.
Consequences of False Health Information
Although misinformation doesn’t always cause direct harm, it can put an individual’s health and safety at risk. Here are some common issues stemming from incorrect medical claims:
- Anaphylaxis and allergic reactions
- Increased exposure to foodborne illnesses
- Vitamin toxicity
- Confusion
- Worsened disease severity or outcomes
- Death
Misinformation can also erode the public’s trust in clinicians, science, and healthcare professionals. As a result, patients may delay or avoid care or refuse preventive services.
When that happens, their risk of these issues increases, putting a greater burden on the public health infrastructure.
How to Combat Medical Misinformation on the Internet
Practitioners can—and should—play a role in reducing the spread of false health information. In fact, research suggests that patients believe their doctors and local medical organizations are more reliable than national and government-backed resources.
Or, to put it simply, you can make a difference. Strategies to help combat misinformation include:
Increasing Health Literacy
Providers can expand health literacy by helping patients learn more about medicine. For instance, you could teach them about vaccine development or clinical trials.
Another way to improve medical literacy is through “prebunking,” or teaching patients about how incorrect information spreads. Acknowledge that there is a lot of information out there and that it can be challenging to know who to trust.
Remember to be nonjudgmental when interacting with people deep in misinformation. Instead, share that while you have heard similar claims before, you think differently. Explain why and how to find trusted sources.
Improving Access to Care
Promoting health and wellness, and therefore reducing false information, also depends on accessibility. People may be more likely to engage in healthy behaviors if they are easier to access, such as a free vaccine clinic or walk-in appointments.
It may also help to create a “buddy” system, so patients have someone to support them and hold them accountable for preventive services. You could promote healthy routines, such as yearly well-visits or a back-to-school physical, too.
Teaching Patients to Use the SIFT Method
Encourage individuals to learn how to identify misinformation with the SIFT method:
- S: Stop
- I: Investigate the source
- F: Find other reliable sources to support the claim
- T: Trace claims to their original evidence
The goal is to help people slow down and think critically before resharing or participating in a wellness trend they see online. Help patients find reliable resources, such as the American Medical Association, medical journals, universities, and health organizations.
Enhancing Patient-Provider Communication
How you talk to the patient also helps combat misinformation. If someone shares incorrect information with you, try using the 3 Es:
- Engage: Acknowledge the claim without judgment. Avoid dismissing the person’s concerns or overwhelming them with facts and resources.
- Emphasize: Validate the person’s perspective or experience.
- Educate: Provide concise, easy-to-understand explanations and reference credible resources.
Another strategy is motivational interviewing, which may help these individuals feel understood. Use open-ended questions, reflect on the patient’s responses, and support their autonomy and values.
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