In Slovakia, a new initiative by medical professionals aims to tackle health misinformation that poses serious threats to public health. Common myths, such as the belief that quitting smoking abruptly can severely damage one’s health or that true immunity is only achieved through exposure to diseases rather than vaccination, are being debunked. Additionally, claims such as Vitamin C being a safeguard against respiratory diseases and the myth that hard alcohol aids digestion are also addressed. The campaign, launched by the 'Lekári nahlas' initiative in collaboration with the Central European Digital Media Observatory (CEDMO), has put together a website that provides evidence-based explanations about these prevalent health misconceptions.

The website, www.lekarinahlas.sk, features a list of the 30 most common health-related misinformation statements along with factual explanations of why these claims don't hold up. For instance, the belief that a shot of hard alcohol helps with digestion after a meal is directly countered with scientific evidence. This educational effort is driven by the necessity for reliable health information, especially as more individuals turn to the internet and artificial intelligence for health knowledge. The lack of awareness around these myths not only endangers individual health but could also lead to wider public health issues.

As access to health information increases through online platforms, the potential for harmful misinformation to spread is greater than ever. Experts warn that this misinformation could deter individuals from seeking proper medical advice or understanding their health, leading to serious consequences. The campaign provides a structured approach to equip the public with accurate information, encouraging a more informed society that can better navigate health discussions, leading potentially to improved health outcomes across Slovakia.