The app is full of false claims.
A recent study highlights the prevalence of misinformation on health topics circulating on TikTok, particularly concerning sinusitis. Researchers found that approximately 44% of TikTok videos related to sinusitis contained inaccurate information. Alarmingly, nearly half of these videos were produced by “non-medical influencers,” individuals with sizable followings but lacking medical expertise. Some of these videos even advocated for potentially harmful “treatments.”
Dr. Christopher Roxbury, a senior researcher and rhinology expert at the University of Chicago Medicine, expressed concern over patients being misled by online information, leading to ineffective or harmful self-treatments. He emphasized encountering patients who had undergone misguided treatments found online, resulting in adverse outcomes.
TikTok’s platform, known for its entertainment value, has also become a hub for health-related content, attracting users seeking information and support for various health conditions. However, amidst the harmless trends, such as putting potatoes in socks, lurks more perilous misinformation, such as anti-vaccine rhetoric or dangerous home remedies like ingesting borax.
While medical professionals on TikTok strive to provide accurate information, the sheer volume of content from non-medical influencers often overshadows their efforts. Nonetheless, the study revealed that medical professionals’ videos were more reliable, with only 15% containing inaccurate information compared to nearly 60% from non-medical influencers.
Despite the presence of informative content from healthcare experts, dangerous trends persist, like the recent garlic-in-the-nose fad to alleviate congestion. While this trend may seem innocuous, researchers warn of potential harm, such as nasal tissue damage or obstruction.
To combat the spread of misinformation, researchers advocate for increased involvement of healthcare professionals on social media platforms like TikTok. By creating educational content, medical experts can counterbalance harmful messages and provide accurate information to those seeking guidance on health matters. This proactive approach aims to empower individuals with reliable knowledge and mitigate the risks associated with online health misinformation.
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