In this timely and practical webinar, Dr. Maria Kardakova explores the growing challenge of online health misinformation and its widespread impact on public health. Participants will learn to identify common sources and tactics used to spread misinformation, particularly related to nutrition and wellness, and understand its psychological effects on behavior and body image. Through real-world examples and a live fact-checking demonstration, the session equips attendees with tools to critically assess online content and strategies for communicating trustworthy, evidence-based information. Health professionals will gain valuable insights into promoting digital health literacy and fostering public trust in the online space.
The session will cover the following key areas:
- Introduction
– Why online health misinformation matters today
– Common platforms and formats where it spreads - Types and Sources of Misinformation
– Pseudoscience, marketing claims, influencers
– Red flags and manipulation tactics - Impact on Public Health and Behavior
– Case examples: diets, supplements, detox trends
– Psychological and behavioral consequences - Evidence-Based Tools for Verification
– How to check claims using credible sources
– Practical demonstration (fact-check walkthrough) - Role of Health Professionals in Counteracting Misinformation
– Communicating effectively online
– Building digital trust and promoting literacy
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the presentation, participants will be able to:
- Identify common types of nutrition and health misinformation circulating in social media and online platforms.
- Recognize red flags and manipulation strategies used in spreading pseudoscientific claims.
- Assess online health content critically using tools and evidence-based sources.
- Understand the psychological impact of misinformation on dietary behavior and body image.
- Apply strategies to communicate reliable health information and educate others in a clear, ethical, and engaging way.
