Scratching the surface: a review of online misinformation and conspiracy theories in atopic dermatitis
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Published Version
Date
2021-04-17
Authors
O'Connor, Cathal
Murphy, Michelle
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Published Version
Abstract
Misinformation is one of the greatest threats to global health. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin disorder with a complex multifactorial aetiology, rendering it susceptible to misinformation. Little is known about the content of misinformation regarding AD online. We performed a review of misinformation related to AD available online, via PubMed for scientific papers and via Google for non-scientific websites. Key areas of misinformation were identified, including 'simple cures' for AD, diet, chemicals, dust, vaccines, red skin syndrome, and alternative therapies. Patients with AD and their families are vulnerable to misinformation given the severe impact of AD on quality of life. Dermatologists must be aware of the false content being shared online related to AD, and be prepared to refute and rebut misinformation by providing appropriate evidence.
Description
Keywords
Misinformation , Atopic dermatitis , Online
Citation
O'Connor, C. and Murphy, M. (2021) 'Scratching the surface: a review of online misinformation and conspiracy theories in atopic dermatitis', Clinical and Experimental Dermatology. doi: 10.1111/ced.14679