National survey findings suggest many US adults report making health decisions based on social media despite widespread concerns about the accuracy of health information shared to the platforms.
Edited
Andrea Surnit
Conexiant June 30, 2026
5 Topic Commentaries
How Does Social Media Influence Health Decisions?
Robert M. Califf, MD, MACC
Cardiology
•
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
The growing spread of rumors about science and medicine continues to put patients and consumers at risk.
Using social media platforms for self-diagnosis may lead to incorrect perceptions of one's mental health and as a result can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety.
Bio:Andrea Surnit is an editor for Conexiant whose work includes cardiology news and journal coverage. She edited Conexiant reporting on proactive care coordination for older Medicare patients with cardiovascular disease or cardiovascular risk factors.
5 Topic Commentaries
How Does Social Media Influence Health Decisions?
Robert M. Califf, MD, MACC
Cardiology
•U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Katherine M. Keyes, PhD, MPH
Epidemiology; Population Mental Health
•Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
Patricia A. Cavazos-Rehg, PhD
Psychiatry; Addiction Science
•Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Jennifer Katzenstein, PhD
Psychology; Neuropsychology
•Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital
Ryan D'Souza, MD
Anesthesiology; Pain Medicine
•Mayo Clinic
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