Recent studies highlight the growing vulnerability of society to misinformation, particularly in health-related matters, often spread through social media. With so much health advice readily available, how can we ensure its accuracy?
A 2024 Healthline survey in the U.S. found that over half of respondents relied on social media for health information, while 32% turned to family and friends. However, many admitted they did not fully trust these sources. Similarly, a survey by The Alan Turing Institute in the U.K. revealed that 94% of people had encountered misinformation online.
Why Do We Fall for Health Misinformation?
Behavioral scientist Dr. Dawn Holford from the University of Bristol explains that people tend to believe misinformation that aligns with their existing beliefs or fears. Factors such as anxiety about medical procedures, distrust in institutions, or resistance to authority can make individuals more susceptible to false health claims.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Holford notes that susceptibility to misinformation is influenced by ideology and psychological traits. People who engage in "actively open-minded thinking"—willingness to consider different perspectives—are less likely to fall for misinformation. However, past negative experiences with the healthcare system, including discrimination or inadequate care, can fuel distrust in official sources.
To help people resist misinformation, researchers have developed "jiu-jitsu interventions," including:
Psychological Inoculation: Teaching individuals how misinformation tactics work, such as cherry-picking data or using fake experts, to help them recognize false information.
Empathetic Refutation: Addressing misinformation in a way that aligns with people’s existing beliefs, making corrections more acceptable.
How to Verify Health Information
Holford recommends lateral reading—checking multiple independent sources to verify health claims. It is especially crucial to fact-check information that strongly aligns with personal beliefs, as people are more likely to accept misinformation that confirms their biases.
Despite declining trust in government health agencies, Holford argues that organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and reputable medical platforms remain credible sources. If in doubt, consulting a trusted healthcare professional is the best approach to verifying health information.
As misinformation continues to spread, critical thinking and fact-checking are essential in ensuring we rely on accurate and trustworthy health advice.
