The disproportionate impact of health misinformation on BIPOC communities: A call for paediatricians to act

By Ripudaman Singh Minhas, MD MPH FRCPC FAAP (He/Him)

As a developmental paediatrician in Toronto's inner city, I serve families from diverse cultural-linguistic backgrounds who face systemic racism, economic hardship, and historical marginalization. Many of these families, already vulnerable to health inequities, are disproportionately affected by the rise of health misinformation and disinformation—especially in today’s digital age. This issue is particularly urgent for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour) communities, making it a critical concern for paediatricians across Canada.

Many BIPOC families are now relocating to rural and remote communities, where healthcare access is often more limited, and the effects of misinformation are compounded. The pandemic has accelerated this shift, making it even more critical for paediatricians to address misinformation in both urban and rural settings.

The growing threat of misinformation

A January 2025 report from the Canadian Medical Association’s (CMA) highlights the widespread nature of health misinformation in Canada and its harmful effects on public health, trust in medical institutions, and health disparities. BIPOC communities are particularly at risk due to historical exploitation and ongoing marginalization, which fosters mistrust in medical institutions. From the Tuskegee Syphilis Study to the forced sterilization of Indigenous women, these painful histories contribute to skepticism around healthcare systems.

The digital age has made misinformation more pervasive, especially on social media platforms. The recent decision by Meta to end its fact-checking program raises concerns about the spread of false health claims, making it more difficult for families to identify credible health information. Many families, particularly those underserved by the healthcare system or without a primary care provider, turn to social media out of necessity, further deepening their exposure to harmful misinformation. 

The situation is becoming even more critical as we witness the erasure of key public health information from U.S. government websites and cuts to public health funding. These actions threaten to reduce access to accurate, science-based health information for marginalized communities, further making space for the spread of misinformation and disinformation.

Conspiracy theories are another significant threat, especially in BIPOC communities. The pandemic saw an increase in health-related conspiracies that targeted these populations, deepening mistrust in public health measures, including vaccines. These harmful theories further jeopardize health outcomes, especially as lower vaccine uptake contributes to the spread of preventable diseases.

Misinformation and disinformation are growing issues in child and youth health. Paediatricians must be ready to respond and advocate for safer digital landscapes. Here are some ways to take action:

1. Listen and be empathetic

Acknowledge the valid concerns of BIPOC families. Their mistrust of healthcare institutions is rooted in real and painful histories. By listening without judgment, we create a space for meaningful dialogue, which is key to building trust.

2. Provide reliable, culturally relevant resources

Share credible, evidence-based information that is culturally sensitive and accessible. Resources from trusted organizations like the Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), and Our Kids’ Health (OKH) are invaluable tools in this effort.

3. Use technology wisely

While misinformation thrives on social media, these platforms can also be used to share accurate information. Consider creating or curating culturally-relevant content that directly addresses common misconceptions and provides science-backed advice in formats that are engaging and accessible. That’s the work we aim to do at Our Kids’ Health for families representing 10 different cultural and linguistic communities.

4. Empower families

Help families critically assess the health information they encounter online. Teach them how to evaluate sources, look for peer-reviewed studies, and distinguish fact from fiction. Empowered families are more likely to seek out and trust credible medical advice.

5. Stay Informed

Paediatricians must stay up to date with the latest research and trends in health misinformation. Reports like the one from the CMA are essential for understanding the scope of the issue and refining our responses to this growing challenge.

Health misinformation poses a significant threat, particularly to BIPOC communities that have historically been marginalized by our healthcare systems. As paediatricians, we can help combat this by providing culturally competent, reliable information and fostering trust through empathetic listening and support. The recent erasure of critical public health information and cuts to public health funding make our role even more crucial. By staying informed, using technology wisely, and empowering families to make informed decisions, we can mitigate the impact of misinformation and contribute to a more equitable healthcare system for all.

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