In today’s digital world, health information is everywhere. Social media, blogs, and even well-meaning friends often share advice about medical treatments, diets, or disease prevention.

However, not all this information is accurate. Misinformation—whether through misunderstanding, misreporting, inadequate scientific literacy or intentional deception—can be harmful, especially when it leads people to make poor health choices.

So how can you tell if what you’re reading is trustworthy? And what steps can you take to protect yourself and your loved ones from false health claims?

Why Do We Fall for Health Misinformation?

Understanding why misinformation spreads is key to avoiding it. We all have beliefs and emotions shaped by our experiences—what psychologists call “attitude roots.” For example, if you’ve had a bad experience with healthcare or are anxious about a medical procedure, you may be more likely to believe negative stories about doctors or treatments that fit your existing fears.

Another common reason is confirmation bias: the tendency to seek out and accept information that supports what we already believe, while ignoring facts that don’t. This is human nature, but it makes us vulnerable to misleading advice, even sometimes from uninformed “medical experts”.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Anyone can fall for misinformation, but research shows people are more likely to believe something if it matches their existing worldviews or anxieties. People who are open to considering different perspectives and evidence—what scientists call “actively open-minded thinking”—are less likely to be misled.

Negative experiences with the health system (such as racism, sexism, or poor care) can also make people more susceptible to distrustful narratives about healthcare. Sometimes, misinformation is crafted specifically to appeal to certain beliefs or fears.

Tips to Spot and Avoid Health Misinformation

1. Check the Source

• Is the information coming from a reputable organisation or reputable health sites, such as the MOH, World Health Organization (WHO), or a recognised medical body?
• If it’s a website or social media post, look for an “About” page and the “Editorial Policy” and what measures they put in to ensure the health information is robust.

2. Use Lateral Reading

• Don’t just stay on one site. Open new tabs and search for what other sources are saying about the same topic. Read up the original studies or claims.
• See if independent experts or official organisations are saying the same thing. Verify the claims. For example, PP Health Malaysia verified and fact-checked all our sources to ensure it is reliable.

3. Look for Evidence

• Are claims backed up by scientific studies? Are those studies published in reputable journals?
• Be wary of anecdotes (“It worked for me!”) or testimonials without data or opinion piece by so called experts with no evidence to back.

4. Watch for Red Flags

• Sensational headlines (“Miracle Cure!”, Magical Cure, etc), emotional language, or urgent calls to action (“Share this now!”) are often signs of misinformation.
• Promises of one time or quick fixes or one-size-fits-all solutions should be met with scepticism.

5. Be Wary of “Fake Experts”

• Just because someone says they are an expert doesn’t mean they are qualified. Check their credentials, background and their editorial policies. Do they use systematic editorial standards?

6. Ask: Does It Seem Too Good (or Bad) to Be True?

• If something fits perfectly with what you want to believe—or seems shocking—double-check before sharing or acting on it.

7. Consult a Trusted Healthcare Professional

• If you’re unsure about any health advice, ask your GP, pharmacist, or another trusted medical professional.

What Should Platforms and Professionals Do?

While individuals can take steps to protect themselves, organisations that share health information have a duty to fact-check and present information responsibly. Advocacy for better regulation and quality control on social media platforms is also important.

Where Can I Find Trustworthy Health Information?

• Official Government Sites: Ministry of Health (Malaysia), etc.
• Global Organisations: World Health Organization (WHO)
• Trusted Non-Profits: Patient Info (UK), Mayo Clinic (US)
• Your Own GP or Healthcare Provider: They know your personal health situation best.

Final Thoughts

Health misinformation can spread quickly and do real harm. By staying alert, checking sources, and being willing to question even the information that feels “right,” you can protect yourself and others from false claims.

And remember: when in doubt, talk to a qualified healthcare professional. Your health is too important to risk on unreliable advice.