How experts are breaking the misinformation cycle online

Women’s health issues are often complex and multifaceted, ranging from reproductive health to chronic conditions that disproportionately affect women. 

This complexity, combined with historical gaps in women’s health research, creates fertile ground for misinformation to take root. 

The social media era has exacerbated this problem, with platforms like TikTok becoming primary sources and search engines for health information.

A recent Canadian survey revealed that 82 per cent of women research health conditions and symptoms online, while 75 per cent seek treatment information digitally. 

While social media can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and fostering community support, it can also amplify misinformation.

Much of the information on social media goes unchecked and is not discussed with healthcare providers.

Recent studies highlight a troubling trend on TikTok – more than half of its health-related content is inaccurate and of poor quality, primarily spread by influencers without medical credentials.

For example, a study by Morton et al. (2023) examining the 500 most popular TikTok posts related to gynecological cancer (with a staggering 466 million combined views) found that at least 73 per cent of the content was inaccurate (2). 

The rapid spread of misinformation on the internet and social media causes confusion and distrust, making it difficult for women to find accurate information to make informed healthcare decisions.

This can lead to serious consequences and negatively impact women’s health.

A survey by Plan International of 26,000 girls and young women from 26 countries found that 87 per cent have been harmed by false information online.

Many women delay seeking care (38 per cent), struggle to discuss healthcare with providers (34 per cent), and avoid effective treatments (31 per cent) due to misinformation. 

In extreme cases, misinformation can lead to dangerous behaviours.

For instance, individuals might attempt self-managed abortions based on false information about “home remedies” involving harmful substances like insect repellent or illicit drugs.

Beyond physical health impacts, misinformation also causes psychological distress and anxiety.

One potential solution to this misinformation crisis is the proactive engagement of health and wellness professionals with social platforms to disseminate evidence-based health information. Examples of such initiatives include Fides and Femble.

In 2020, WHO partnered with healthcare professionals to launch Fides, an online network aimed at combating health misinformation and empowering the public to make informed health decisions.

By supporting social media creators, WHO helps bridge the gap between science and everyday life, promoting health literacy and healthy behaviours. 

Femble addresses this challenge by creating a platform that empowers women’s health professionals to share accurate health information, debunk myths, and enhance their visibility.

By connecting health expertise with effective digital outreach, Femble aims to improve women’s health outcomes and promote informed decision-making among users.

By providing a supportive space, educating healthcare providers to share their expertise, and creating engaging evidence-based content, we can empower women globally to make informed decisions about their health and reduce the impact of misinformation in the social media era.