Misinformation on cardiovascular disease spreads through social networks: a scoping review.

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular health remains susceptible to inaccurate information, which can harm health outcomes. This scoping review addresses a gap in comprehensive analyses by synthesising evidence on the prevalence, spread, impact and correction strategies related to cardiovascular health misinformation across diverse populations and settings.

METHODS

Following Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, we searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Index Medicus, Web of Science. A dual-reviewer process, using Covidence, screened articles in two phases (title/abstract, full-text) based on predefined inclusion criteria. Data extraction was performed by two reviewers, and results were synthesised narratively, presented by tables and figures.

RESULTS

From 6348 screened articles, 22 were included. The review reveals widespread misinformation concerning smoking, nutrition, blood pressure, weight management, alcohol consumption and diabetes care. Specific examples include misleading claims about e-cigarette safety and the downplaying of alcohol's harms. A substantial proportion of social media posts falsely discourage salt reduction (reaching 1.5 million followers) and a significant number of diet/exercise vlogs (36.7%) and YouTube videos on myocardial infarction (one-third) contain inaccuracies, often originating from unreliable sources. Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X were identified as key platforms for dissemination.

CONCLUSION

This review demonstrates that cardiovascular health misinformation is widespread and shaped by both platform dynamics and user-level factors. Addressing this challenge requires coordinated strategies that strengthen digital literacy, enhance visibility of evidence-based content and reduce the reach of misinformation. Collaborative efforts between public health agencies, clinical institutions and technology platforms are essential to ensure that trustworthy cardiovascular disease-related information reaches the public.