By the time this issue hits your homes, the election will be over. And phew, it has been a doozy.
The rhetoric of politics has drowned out positive debate over issues and policy, and far too often, health care facts are thrown to the wayside in favor of divisive and inaccurate “bumper sticker” messaging. We argue over whether a procedure is good or bad without giving any credence to the scientific support or opposition of said procedure or the nuance of when a procedure may be indicated.
It is easy to assume I’m speaking about abortion care, but that is far from the only polarizing medical issue, and we’re seeing encroachment on more than just the “easy” targets like reproductive health and gender affirming care.
I have recently seen an uptick in posts from people who are now spreading misinformation about preventative diagnostics such as mammograms and colonoscopies, both safe and important procedures that have proven effectiveness in the early detection of cancers.
According to these online experts, “Mammograms can smash open the lump causing the parasites to go wild and actually gives you cancer.” Yes, you read that correctly, and that particular tweet has several thousand retweets and likes. It had a few people trying to contradict it, but the vast majority responded with an “I had no idea” or “good information to know.” Distressing to say the least.
Another, obviously scientifically based post: “Avoid getting a colonoscopy, way too many people end up with perforations of their colon (sic) and that’s how the cancer spreads.” Another one with far too many likes and retweets.
We have an epidemic of misinformation unlike anything I’ve ever seen before, and I’m pointing the finger straight at those who use this disinformation to foment distrust in political opponents, gain support from people who may be less aware or who don’t know how or where to search for more accurate information, or those who are just scared of all the bad things that are out in the world and need somewhere to place the blame. The lowest form of communication is fear-based messaging, but it seems to be the norm, not the exception. The internet is many things, both good and bad. It allows for the free reign of disinformation, yet at the same time, it also gives us access to a wealth of accurate and important information.
Whatever the cause, as physicians, you are faced with patients who bring you these theories. I’ve heard countless stories from physicians who have patients bringing them WebMD articles as their home-diagnosis tool. Do they expect you to confirm their suspicions or to provide them with the information needed to make a more informed decision? Good question, right? Not always easily answered, but I do believe that the most recalcitrant purveyors of disinformation are few and far between, and likely getting some sort of benefit from their participation in dissemination while the majority of your patients are looking to you for guidance and help.
You are the subject matter experts. You’ve completed the education and are practicing in the largest and broadest specialty of medicine. Your patients trust you to give them accurate information while also acknowledging their fears and concerns. Whether it be countering vaccine hesitancy or educating someone on the realities of preventative care, your patients come to you for your expertise.
Rely on trusted sources of information — peer-reviewed articles, AAFP resources, and trusted colleagues. But most importantly, trust yourselves. As physicians, you have the power to turn up the volume on accurate information and to help drown out the disinformation. Let’s work together to move the dialogue forward by combating disinformation with thoughtfulness, honesty, and accuracy.
