The platforms are flooded with dangerous misinformation.
A new study reveals that social media posts promoting controversial medical tests, such as testosterone testing, full-body MRI scans, “egg timer” fertility tests, and gut microbiome analysis, are often filled with misinformation. Researchers examined nearly 1,000 Instagram and TikTok posts and found a large amount of misleading or incomplete information. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, highlighted that many of these posts lacked scientific evidence and omitted potential harms associated with the tests, especially since influencers with large followings were promoting them.
Most of the posts (84%) were promotional rather than offering balanced or critical perspectives. While 87% of the posts focused on the benefits of the tests, only a small percentage mentioned risks such as false diagnoses or unnecessary treatments. Moreover, a significant portion (68%) of the influencers promoting these tests had financial incentives, raising concerns about conflicts of interest. Researchers pointed out that this flood of misinformation is being framed as empowering individuals to take control of their health.
Specific tests, like the AMH “egg timer” fertility test and testosterone testing, are marketed to individuals in ways that may lead to unnecessary medical interventions. For instance, the AMH test is not considered reliable for assessing fertility but is heavily promoted as such, while testosterone tests often use fear-based tactics to sell supplements, despite unclear long-term safety data. The study’s lead researchers emphasized the dangers of promoting these tests outside of proper medical supervision, as they could cause undue stress and harm.
The study also raised concerns about other popular tests like multi-cancer genetic tests and full-body MRI scans, which claim to provide a wide range of health insights. However, these tests are not supported by solid evidence for healthy people, and may lead to unnecessary diagnoses and treatments. Researchers called for a more critical evaluation of medical tests promoted online and stressed the need for consumers to be aware of the potential risks involved.
Ultimately, the findings underscore the importance of regulating health-related content on social media and ensuring that accurate, scientifically supported information is shared with the public.
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