52% of Americans who have tried a health trend, tool or approach in the past year say they found them on social media
New survey from Healthline and YouGov finds alarming trends in missed routine screenings and use of social media for sourcing health tactics
It's clear that people are engaging in health tactics found on social media. However, despite participating in these trends, most of the survey's respondents hold a negative view of them.
Public perception of health trends versus participation
Healthline and YouGov have partnered to investigate the state of consumer health, including where people source their health information. Conducted in September 2024, this comprehensive survey encompassed over 4,000 individuals from across the United States, examining their health information sources and decision making processes.
Americans who did not receive their annual physical exam
Gaps in preventative care are more likely for those who use social media as inspiration for health and wellness trends
58%
Only 22%
of women report they received their gynecological or well-woman exam
Where did Americans learn about health tactics* they’ve tried in the past year:
Social media
52%
Search engine
37%
Their doctor or other healthcare provider
34%
A friend, family member, or colleague
32%
Health information site
30%
*health tactic defined as health and wellness tools, resources, trends, or products
Routine wellness exams and screenings give patients a better understanding of their overall well-being, which may also influence consumer health behaviors. The survey shows that attending a routine screening increased the likelihood of trying a health trend.
Preventative care can help patients make educated decisions about their health
37%
expressed at least one positive view
77%
expressed at least one negative view
79%
72%
54%
38%
Gen Z
Millennials
Gen X
Boomers
of all survey participants
Routine care screenings are essential to identifying early warning signs of disease, and early diagnoses lead to better outcomes. They also help physicians to compare results over time, allowing patient and provider to make more informed healthcare decisions.”
Jenny Yu MD, FACS
Healthline Chief Medical Officer
“
See the full report here
Who is more likely to try health trends
Americans who have gotten a health screening in the last year are likelier than those who haven’t to try health trends and approaches in general.
Americans who have gotten a health screening in the last year
Americans who have not gotten a health screening in the last year
25%
14%
Physical well-being
25%
11%
Skin care
18%
7%
Weight loss
12%
7%
Hair health
12%
5%
Dental health