Specialists are urging tighter control over the dissemination of possibly misleading medical advice by influencers on social media platforms.
According to a report published in The BMJ, more than 40 percent of young American adults turn to influencers for guidance, raising concerns that these individuals may receive inaccurate or biased information on critical health matters.
Take, for instance, Kim Kardashian’s recommendation to her vast audience of 360 million followers to undergo a full-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.
While such scans can be advantageous for those at elevated risk for specific health issues, they also carry the danger of leading to overdiagnosis and unnecessary medical procedures.
The authors of the report identify four overlapping biases: “limited expertise, industry influence, entrepreneurial interests, and personal belief.”
The report further warns that such advice can result in psychological, physical, financial, and systemic harm.
The report says influencers create a tight bond and relationship with their followers, with the sharing of real-life experiences helping foster a connection.
They can also help break stigmas surrounding certain medical conditions.
However, the report argues more government oversight is required to ensure influencers do not mislead their followers or promote unethical practices.
Australia already has some laws and regulations in place, banning paid health testimonials.
Some influencers believe medical experts should work more closely with them, believing they can bridge a key gap.
“I wish healthcare professionals would listen and engage more with patient communities online,” Lily Mae, whose Instagram account @chronicallylil shows her struggles with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, endometriosis, and vascular compression syndrome.
“There’s such a wealth of firsthand knowledge being sharedâreal stories, symptoms, and lived experiences that could help improve care if more providers took the time to understand them.”Â
