New research presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting in Orlando highlights both the benefits and risks of using social media for allergy and asthma education. The studies show that while these platforms can help patients share experiences and find community, they also serve as a channel for spreading misinformation.
One study focused on alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), a condition triggered by Lone Star tick bites that can cause severe allergic reactions to meat. Researchers reviewed the top 100 videos under the hashtag “alphagal” on a social media platform. Only 15 of these were created by physicians, most of whom were not allergists. However, physician-made videos attracted more likes and comments than those from non-physicians, which were typically shorter and based on personal stories.
“Alpha-gal is confusing for patients, and many turn to social media for guidance,” said allergist Nadia Hamid, MD, ACAAI member and lead author of the study. “While personal stories are valuable, there’s also a lot of misinformation. When allergists and other doctors step in, their content resonates – suggesting a real opportunity to improve public understanding.”
A second study analyzed TikTok videos about asthma posted in 2024 under #asthma. Of the 40 most-liked English-language videos examined, over one quarter contained inaccurate or misleading information. Myths included claims that asthma could be cured with breathing exercises or that combining caffeine with inhalers could be fatal. These misleading videos received more than three times as many likes as accurate ones.
Most asthma-related content was produced by non-physicians, resulting in generally low quality scores according to researchers’ assessments.
“TikTok and other platforms offer incredible opportunities to reach patients where they are,” said Ishitha Jagadish, MD, medical resident and lead author of the study. “But right now, misinformation about asthma is not only widespread, it’s more engrossing than accurate content. We need more allergy and asthma experts online to present science-based, engaging content.”
The findings suggest that patient narratives provide support but may also contribute to the spread of myths if not balanced by expert input. The studies recommend greater involvement from clinicians—especially allergists—in sharing reliable health information online.
For further details about allergies or asthma diagnosis and treatment or to locate an allergist nearby, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org.
