A recent study found that social media influencers are often promoting health tests in a way that is misleading and fails to mention potential harms. Researchers from the University of Sydney analyzed 982 social media posts about five popular health tests on Instagram and TikTok, including full-body MRI scans, genetic testing for early cancer signs, blood tests for testosterone levels, an egg-timer test for women’s fertility, and a gut microbiome test.
The study found that most posts (87.1%) mentioned benefits of the tests, while only 6% discussed potential harms such as overdiagnosis or financial costs. The majority (83.8%) used a promotional tone, with over half encouraging viewers to take action and get the test.
Influencers often use emotional narratives to promote these tests, claiming they can provide empowerment and control over one’s health. However, these tests may carry potential risks for healthy individuals, such as unnecessary diagnoses or treatments.
The study highlights concerns about the spread of misinformation on social media and calls for stronger regulation to prevent this issue. Experts say that influencers often prey on people’s insecurities and fears, leading them to make uninformed decisions about their health.
Key findings include:
* Most posts promoted benefits over potential harms
* Influencers used promotional language to encourage viewers to get tested
* Tests were often promoted under the guise of empowerment and control
* Potential risks for healthy individuals included unnecessary diagnoses or treatments
As one expert noted, “This study adds to the evidence that medical misinformation is common on social media. We should all think again when an influencer encourages us to get tested.”
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/feb/27/social-media-influencers-are-fearmongering-to-promote-health-tests-with-limited-evidence-study-finds