Canadians Grapple with Rising Tide of Online Health Misinformation, CMA Survey Reveals
TORONTO – In an era defined by instant access to information, a growing number of Canadians are finding themselves navigating a treacherous landscape of online health misinformation, with potentially dire consequences for their well-being. A new survey commissioned by the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and conducted by Abacus Data paints a stark picture of the challenges faced by individuals seeking reliable health information in the digital age. The 2025 CMA Health & Media Annual Tracking Survey reveals that 37% of Canadians are forced to turn to the internet for health advice due to a lack of access to a family doctor, leaving them vulnerable to the proliferation of misleading and often harmful information. This digital dependence has resulted in 23% of respondents reporting negative health outcomes after following online health advice, highlighting the real-world dangers of misinformation. Furthermore, the survey indicates a concerning rise in mental distress and anxiety (43%) attributed to the consumption of inaccurate health information, underscoring the pervasive impact of this issue on Canadians’ mental well-being.
The CMA has expressed serious concerns about the role of social media algorithms in amplifying the spread of health misinformation. These algorithms, designed to maximize user engagement, often prioritize sensationalized or emotionally charged content, regardless of its factual accuracy. This dynamic creates a feedback loop where misinformation is inadvertently promoted to users, even if they are not actively seeking it. Dr. Joss Reimer, CMA president, emphasizes the connection between the lack of access to primary care and the reliance on online sources: "About 6.5 million Canadians don’t have a primary care provider, and that is pushing people to find solutions to their health problems on their own, online." The CMA is calling on social media platforms to acknowledge their role in disseminating misinformation and take immediate action to mitigate its harmful effects on Canadians’ health. Dr. Reimer underscores the urgent need for accountability: "We’re calling on all social media platforms to take accountability for the impact misinformation is having on the health of Canadians and take immediate action to stop it.”
The survey also sheds light on the susceptibility of Canadians to misinformation, revealing that 43% are highly vulnerable and an additional 35% are moderately susceptible. This susceptibility underscores the importance of providing Canadians with the tools and resources to critically evaluate online health information. The majority of survey participants expressed the belief that access to trustworthy health information empowers them to make informed decisions and combat the spread of misinformation. This finding highlights the need for proactive measures to enhance the availability and accessibility of credible health resources. The vulnerability to misinformation, coupled with limited access to primary care physicians, creates a dangerous combination that necessitates immediate action from healthcare providers, policymakers, and social media platforms alike.
The CMA has been advocating for comprehensive health care reform, including the implementation of team-based care models, reduction of administrative burdens on physicians, and pan-Canadian licensure. These measures aim to alleviate the strain on the healthcare system, improve access to primary care, and ultimately reduce the need for individuals to resort to unreliable online sources for health information. By strengthening the primary care system, the CMA believes Canadians will be less likely to turn to the internet for health advice, thereby mitigating their exposure to misinformation. The organization’s focus on system-wide reform highlights the interconnectedness between access to care and the spread of misinformation.
Addressing the issue of health misinformation requires a multi-pronged approach that involves empowering individuals with critical thinking skills and ensuring access to credible health information. The CMA is actively engaged in initiatives aimed at improving the quality and availability of accurate health information in Canada. Through programs like Healthcare For Real, funding health journalism initiatives, and supporting physicians who share trustworthy information online, the CMA is working to create a more informed and resilient healthcare landscape. These efforts are crucial in combating the pervasive influence of misinformation and ensuring that Canadians have access to reliable health guidance.
The findings of the 2025 CMA Health & Media Annual Tracking Survey underscore the urgency of addressing the issue of health misinformation in Canada. The CMA’s call for action highlights the shared responsibility of social media platforms, healthcare providers, and policymakers in creating a digital environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of Canadians. Dr. Reimer will elaborate on these findings and the CMA’s recommendations during a discussion on the state of Canada’s information environment at the Canadian Club in Toronto on January 21st. This event provides an opportunity for stakeholders to engage in a critical conversation about the challenges and opportunities in combating misinformation and ensuring Canadians have access to the reliable health information they deserve. The virtual attendance option ensures accessibility for those interested in learning more about this critical issue and contributing to the ongoing dialogue.