Mexican officials warn of health misinformation on social media and AI

Mexican health and digital rights officials have warned of the growing risks posed by health-related misinformation circulating on social media and through artificial intelligence tools. During the forum ‘Health, social networks and digital rights: reliable and uncensored health information’, leaders highlighted the danger of individuals using these platforms to consult on symptoms, medications, or treatments instead of seeking professional medical advice.

José Manuel Cruz Castellanos, president of the Health Commission, emphasized that efforts to combat false information must avoid using public health as a pretext for censorship or limiting freedom of expression. He proposed developing responsibility-based mechanisms to strengthen scientific evidence.

Luis Donaldo Colosio Riojas, president of the Digital Rights Commission, expressed concern regarding social media algorithms, noting they are not designed to filter scientific information, which allows for the spread of misleading medical advice. Additionally, Senator Maki Ortiz Domínguez warned against ‘miracle medicines’ and urged the public to consult official sources before starting new treatments.