Cutting through the noise: unravelling the web of misinformation in surgical social networks

Abstract

Introduction

Social media, a pervasive platform for real-time communication, harbours both the potential for rapid information dissemination and the risk of spreading misinformation. While it has become an indispensable platform for global communication, concerns arise regarding its role in disseminating healthcare information. This study examines the impact of healthcare-related information on social media, particularly focusing on influential surgical accounts. It investigates the quality of content shared by these accounts and compares it with current scientific evidence.

Materials and methods

A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of information presented on platforms of influential surgical accounts on social media, including YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. A sample of surgical influencers, encompassing general surgery and subspecialties, was examined. Their content was retrospectively compared against current scientific evidence related to their respective surgical topics.

Results

The evaluation reveals a diverse landscape regarding the accuracy of healthcare information shared by surgical influencers on social media. While some content aligns with evidence-based practices, there is a notable presence of misinformation and inaccuracies. This highlights the potential consequences of social media on healthcare information dissemination, emphasizing the importance of accurate and evidence-based content.

Conclusion

The study acknowledges the significant influence of these accounts, especially among young people, and underscores the need for responsible information sharing in the medical field due to the potential impact of inaccurate content on healthcare decision-making. Surgical influencers often neglect to provide references of evidence-based information and instead rely on personal experience, posing risks of misinformation and ethical concerns on social media platforms.