TikTok and its potential risk to health education

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Abstract

TikTok has established itself as an influential platform for disseminating health-related content, especially among young people. Its viral appeal transforms medical information into brief, emotional messages that, in many cases, lack scientific rigor. The network's algorithms prioritize interaction and sensational content over evidence, creating an environment conducive to misinformation and the spread of pseudoscience. Studies confirm that many videos on medical topics are produced by users without professional training, which alters public perceptions of treatments and healthy habits. From an ethical perspective, this phenomenon reflects how market criteria influence healthcare communication. However, platforms like TikTok also represent an educational opportunity if they manage to balance visual appeal with scientific veracity, fostering a more critical and responsible digital culture.

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References

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Published

2026-04-13

How to Cite

1.
Vinces-Vergara C. TikTok and its potential risk to health education. Rev. cuba. inf. cienc. salud [Internet]. 2026 Apr. 13 [cited 2026 Apr. 17];37. Available from: https://acimed.sld.cu/index.php/acimed/article/view/3458

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Vol. 37 (2026): (PUBLICACIÓN CONTINUA)

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Copyright (c) 2026 Cristhian Vinces-Vergara

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