Majority of TikTok 'Eco-Influencer' Videos Spread Contradictory Medical Information

Recent research presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics 2025 National Conference reveals that a significant portion of health-related videos shared by non-medical professionals on TikTok contain misinformation. Focusing on the 'eco-influencer' movement, which promotes natural living, holistic approaches, and alternative health practices, the study analyzed top TikTok videos tagged with hashtags such as #naturalparenting, #antivaccine, #holistichealth, and #alternativehealing.

Out of 120 videos examined, 61% were found to oppose established pediatric health guidelines. Many of these videos advocate for vaccine hesitancy, promote unproven natural remedies, reject conventional pediatric care, and perpetuate myths about breastfeeding and infant nutrition. Notably, 80% of these misleading videos were created by self-identified parents and influencers rather than qualified health care professionals.

Dr. Maria A Canas-Galvis from East Carolina University Health Medical Center explained that these videos often emphasize themes like natural cures, vaccine skepticism, and rejection of mainstream medical advice. The research highlighted that these misconceptions are not only widespread but also highly engaging, with videos containing false information receiving over two and a half times more views than accurate ones.

As pediatricians observe the impact of online misinformation firsthand, experts stress the importance of healthcare providers engaging with families to help them critically assess online content. Staying informed about these trends enables pediatricians to guide families toward evidence-based, safe health decisions.

This study underlines the urgent need for increased awareness and proactive communication from healthcare professionals to counteract the rapid spread of health misinformation on social media platforms.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-majority-eco-tiktoks-contradictory-medical.html