Why Medical Misinformation Spreads

A scary headline outruns a boring correction. Evolution prioritized threat news; algorithms monetize it.

Misinformation offers certainty—secret cure, single villain, instant fix. Real medicine tolerates probability and side effects.

Celebrity authority substitutes for credentials. White coats in ads may be actors.

Before sharing, pause: Is this original research or a screenshot? Who benefits if I panic? Would I send this to my doctor?

Correct friends privately when relationships allow; public dunking entrenches tribes.

Platforms demote some falsehoods; you still need personal filters.

COVID-trust and fear-behavior pieces add case studies.