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The Australian study published in JAMA Network Open examined over 1,000 influencer posts on social media, covering five medical tests.
The tests being promoted include full-body MRI scans, genetic cancer tests, testosterone level tests, AMH fertility tests, and gut microbiome tests, all marketed directly to consumers.
The study found that 68% of influencers promoting these tests had financial interests, such as sponsorships or commissions on sales.
The researchers found that these influencers, who had a combined following of 194 million, predominantly promoted the benefits of these tests while largely overlooking potential risks.
Medical experts caution that these tests often lack sufficient evidence to prove their benefits for healthy individuals. They may even cause harm, such as unnecessary medical procedures or false assurances.
Influencer posts about these medical tests largely focused on their benefits, with 85% failing to mention potential risks. These risks can include overdiagnoses, overtreatment, and unnecessary anxiety or pain for consumers.
Medical experts warn that direct-to-consumer tests can lead to unnecessary testing, resulting in pain, anxiety, or even harm.
One of the major risks of these tests is overdiagnosing, leading to unnecessary treatments and procedures with potential long-term consequences.
Experts warn that many influencers lack the medical training to assess the science behind their promotions, spreading misleading or incomplete information.
On the flip side, false negatives can give a false sense of security, causing people to ignore potential health risks.
False positives can cause anxiety and lead to invasive, potentially harmful tests without reflecting true health status.
Next, investigate the author or creator of the post. Check if they have financial incentives or the medical credentials necessary to give trustworthy advice on the subject.
The first step in the "SIFT" method is to stop and consider your emotional response to the post. If it triggers strong emotions, it could be an attempt to manipulate you into making impulsive decisions.
When researching health claims, use reliable sources like medical journals, government health sites, and fact-checkers such as FactCheck.org or Snopes to verify accuracy and avoid misinformation.
To avoid misinformation, experts recommend the "SIFT" method to assess medical claims on social media.
Trace social media claims to their original source; lack of a credible source signals potential misinformation.
Social media influencers are increasingly endorsing direct-to-consumer medical tests, such as MRI scans and fertility assessments, often highlighting their benefits while overlooking potential risks. However, a recent study suggests consumers should be cautious before trusting these posts. Many of these tests lack proper medical oversight, and misleading claims can result in unnecessary anxiety.
Click on for a closer look at these tests and why expert guidance is essential before making health decisions.
The best way to sort fact from fiction is by consulting with a qualified healthcare provider who knows your medical history.
Social media platforms frequently lack factual accuracy and instead rely on sensationalism to capture attention.
Notably, posts from physicians, making up about 15% of the total, were less promotional and more likely to mention potential harms.
Researchers emphasized that the results highlight the urgent need for stronger regulation to prevent misleading medical information on social media platforms.
Doctors generally don't promote influencer-endorsed tests, as they may lack scientific support. Instead, they offer advice based on clinical expertise and patient safety.
As influencers increasingly promote these tests, it's important to understand their validity and potential risks.
The AMH test, known as the "egg timer" test, is marketed as a way to measure a woman's egg count, but it's not a definitive indicator of fertility.
Blood tests measuring testosterone levels are often promoted to assess hormone balance, but they may not be necessary for everyone.
Full-body MRI scans are marketed as a way to detect diseases early, but they may not accurately identify health issues.
Genetic tests claim to identify early signs of 50 cancers, but their accuracy is limited and can lead to unnecessary stress.
Gut microbiome tests analyze bacterial composition in the digestive system, but there's a lack of clear clinical evidence that they predict health issues.
Influencers are persuasive but don't fall for the hype. Always consult professionals and verify information before choosing health tests.
Sources: (Euronews) (Everyday Health)
See also: Common myths about women's health
Study warns against medical tests endorsed by social media influencers
Social media posts about medical tests are often highly misleading
HEALTH Misconceptions
Social media influencers are increasingly endorsing direct-to-consumer medical tests, such as MRI scans and fertility assessments, often highlighting their benefits while overlooking potential risks. A recent study suggests consumers should be cautious before trusting these posts. Many of these tests lack proper medical oversight, and misleading claims can result in unnecessary anxiety.
Click on for a closer look at these tests and why expert guidance is essential before making health decisions.