Endocrine Abstracts

The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the critical need for comprehensive health education to support the survival, well-being, and development of young people. Yet, education in schools often falls short, leaving media as a dominant source of information. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Dr. Google have become go-to resources, with over 61% of adolescents turning to social media for sexual and reproductive health information. While media can educate and advocate, it also perpetuates misinformation through sensationalism, oversimplified claims, and conflicts of interest, especially when influencers and even professionals market products or services. Our research examined how reproductive health education is portrayed on TikTok and Instagram, revealing inaccuracies and highlighting the challenges of using social media as a tool for health education. For instance, Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) testing is falsely marketed as a measure of fertility despite evidence showing the contrary. This test is heavily promoted to young women as empowerment and even funded by some governments, such as France and Greece. Similarly, the menopause market has exploded, with supplements claiming to relieve symptoms, balance hormones, and promote well-being. However, these claims often rely on testimonials and distorted interpretations of scientific data rather than robust evidence. In the fertility field, IVF clinics continue to market unproven add-ons and inflated success rates, despite warnings from regulatory bodies like the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. The unchecked marketing of tests, supplements, and treatments undermines trust in healthcare, leading to delayed medical advice, stigmatization, and potential harm. We urgently need a coordinated response from healthcare professionals, educators, and media outlets to combat misinformation. By promoting evidence-based resources and engaging with the public on trusted platforms, we can reclaim the narrative and safeguard health.