Key facts
- AI-generated doctors are spreading dubious health advice and medical myths on TikTok.
- Experts warn this misinformation poses a "huge danger to public safety".
- Research found AI-generated content in 40% of top health videos on TikTok, with some searches reaching 84%.
- These videos have garnered an average of 2.5 million views.
- Disproven cancer myths and bizarre remedies have been promoted by these AI accounts.
Experts have issued a stark warning about the "huge danger to public safety" posed by AI-generated doctors spreading misleading health claims and medical myths on platforms like TikTok. Research published by digital marketing agency Hallam found that AI-generated content is prevalent in top health-related videos, with some search terms showing up to 84% AI-generated or assisted content. These videos are reaching millions of views, peddling disproven myths about cancer and promoting bizarre remedies.
Dr. Emma Runswick, deputy chair of the British Medical Association council, highlighted the risks of AI accounts promoting medical myths and miracle cures, urging platforms to take more action. The NHS has also warned about health misinformation on social media being a significant threat to public health. Patients are reportedly becoming worried and confused due to false advice generated solely for clicks, according to Prof. Frankie Swords, national medical director at NHS England.
Prof. Victoria Tzortziou Brown, president of the Royal College of GPs, echoed these concerns, noting the real risk of harm from misleading AI content. Alex Ruani, a health misinformation researcher at UCL, described the situation as "industrialised exploitation of trust." A poll indicated that approximately one in five people in England use social media for health information, risking serious health consequences if misled by commercial hype or misinformation.
A TikTok spokesperson stated that the findings do not accurately reflect the platform, asserting that they remove harmful health misinformation, partner with health organizations like the WHO and NHS, and invest in AI literacy and labeling technologies.