Research Finds Social Media Spreads Medical Misinformation

A new study from three Australian universities has found that influencers on TikTok and Instagram are spreading a lot of misleading information about popular medical tests.

Researchers from the University of Sydney, University of Wollongong, and Bond University analyzed nearly 1,000 social media posts from accounts with a combined 194 million followers.

Their findings? A staggering 87% of posts highlighted the benefits of these tests—like full-body MRIs, multicancer screenings, and hormone level checks—but barely 15% mentioned any potential downsides. Worse, only 6% backed up their claims with actual scientific evidence, and even fewer warned about the risks of overdiagnosis or overtreatment.

Dr. Brooke Nickel from the University of Sydney explained the issue: “These tests are being promoted as a way to take control of your health, but the reality is, for most people, they’re unnecessary. In some cases, the science behind them is pretty shaky.”

One major example is the antimullerian hormone (AMH) test, often marketed as an "egg timer test" to measure fertility. While influencers push it as a must-have for women, experts say it’s not actually a reliable indicator. The concern? A low result might send women into unnecessary and expensive fertility treatments without real cause.

The study also found that over half of the posts encouraged followers to get these tests, and nearly 70% of the influencers had a financial interest in promoting them. That’s a huge red flag.

Dr. Ray Moynihan from Bond University didn’t hold back, calling social media an “open sewer of medical misinformation.” He warned that this trend fuels overdiagnosis and puts unnecessary strain on healthcare systems.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) President, Dr. Michael Wright, urged people to be skeptical about health advice they see on social media. “Please apply a critical lens,” he said. “Better yet, talk to your GP—someone who actually knows your medical history—rather than relying on influencers.”

In response, TikTok and Instagram claim they’re working to tackle misinformation. TikTok says it doesn’t allow harmful health misinformation and encourages users to report misleading content. Meta, which owns Instagram, says it removes false content, reduces the reach of flagged posts, and adds warning labels.

Still, with so much unreliable advice floating around, experts are reminding everyone to be cautious. When it comes to your health, it’s always better to rely on real medical professionals instead of social media trends.