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review · International Journal of Applied Research in Social Sciences

A REVIEW OF HEALTH MISINFORMATION ON DIGITAL PLATFORMS: CHALLENGES AND COUNTERMEASURES

202430 citationsOpen accessUniversity of Lagos

In plain language

Health misinformation spread via digital channels poses a worldwide threat by altering individual choices, weakening public health outcomes, and undermining trust in healthcare systems. Diverse forms, origins, and obstacles characterise inaccurate health material and its wider societal repercussions. Addressing the problem involves multifaceted countermeasures, notably formal regulatory frameworks, ethical content moderation practices, and targeted digital literacy programmes. Future strategies highlight the necessity of cross-disciplinary partnerships, the adoption of artificial intelligence tools, and the design of interventions tailored to varied population groups. Fostering societal resilience against these digital challenges ultimately requires sustained research, education, and international cooperation across sectors.

Key takeaways

  • Health misinformation on digital platforms damages individual decision-making, public health results, and trust in health systems.
  • Countermeasures require a combination of regulatory frameworks, ethical content moderation, and digital literacy initiatives.
  • Future interventions depend on interdisciplinary collaboration, artificial intelligence, and strategies tailored to diverse audiences.
  • Building societal resilience against health misinformation requires ongoing research, education, and international cooperation.

Why it matters

False health claims circulating online can lead people to make dangerous medical choices and erode public confidence in healthcare providers. Understanding the mechanisms of misinformation and identifying practical responses, such as digital literacy education and ethical moderation, helps protect communities and supports better public health outcomes across diverse populations.

Commercialisation angle

Potential technological applications include artificial intelligence for content moderation and digital literacy tools tailored for diverse audiences. Technology developers, social media platforms, and public health organisations could utilise these concepts to build automated moderation systems and targeted educational programmes. However, because the source material is a conceptual overview rather than a validated technology, any practical deployment remains at an early conceptual stage.

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Abstract

Health misinformation on digital platforms is a growing global concern, influencing individual health decisions, public health outcomes, and trust in healthcare systems. This review explores health misinformation's types, sources, and challenges, highlighting its diverse manifestations and societal impact. Countermeasures encompass regulatory frameworks, ethical content moderation, and digital literacy initiatives. Future directions emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, leveraging artificial intelligence, and tailoring interventions for diverse audiences. As we confront the evolving landscape of health misinformation, a collective commitment to research, education, and global cooperation emerges as the cornerstone for building a resilient and informed society. Keywords: Health Misinformation, Digital Platforms, Countermeasures, Digital Literacy, Interdisciplinary Collaboration.

Research topics

  • Misinformation and Its Impacts

Sustainable Development Goals

Read the original research

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DOI: 10.51594/ijarss.v6i1.689

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