The World Health Organization (WHO) has partnered with TikTok to provide users with reliable, science-based health information, promote health literacy, and combat misinformation.
The WHO made this known in a statement on Thursday.
The global health body said the partnership demonstrates its dedication to harnessing the power of diverse digital channels to expand its global reach, fostering a better understanding of health issues, encouraging healthy habits and empowering people to make informed decisions in the world. today's digitally connected world.
The power of social networks
According to the world health body, social media platforms have become important contributors to shaping health-related behaviors and decisions, serving as key information hubs that profoundly impact the way people perceive, understand and act on various health problems.
The statement noted that a significant proportion of young adults, about a quarter, actively seek out news content on social media platforms such as TikTok.
It said: “One in four young adults actively search for news content on social media platforms, including TikTok.
“We also know that people are increasingly being targeted by misinformation and misinformation on these digital channels.”
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Leveraging TikTok's massive reach, WHO seeks to empower people to make informed health decisions, addressing the challenges posed by misinformation on digital platforms.
WHO chief scientist Jeremy Farrar said the association is a pioneer in socially responsible platforms.
The official said: “This collaboration may prove to be a turning point in how platforms can be more socially responsible. The intersection of health and technology presents an opportunity to reach people of all ages, wherever they are and whenever they want access.
“By working with TikTok and others, we are helping people access credible information and participate in scientific discourse that collectively helps shape a healthier future for everyone.”
Engage influencers for health education and awareness
The WHO noted that TikTok, with its vast global community of more than one billion users, is harnessing the potential of its platform to promote health awareness, provide reliable information and promote well-being. Through stigma-breaking content, inspiring stories, supportive resources, and community-building initiatives, TikTok strives to positively impact people's lives and health outcomes.
TikTok's global head of trust and safety partnerships and outreach, Valiant Richey, said the partnership will provide credible health content.
He said: “We know that millions of people come to TikTok every day to share and find community in all areas of their life, including their wellbeing, and we strive to ensure they can find trustworthy information on this important topic.
“That is why today we are delighted to collaborate with the WHO Fides network of health influencers, to further strengthen this commitment by bringing engaging and authoritative content on mental wellbeing to our community.”
The WHO Fides network has been a game-changer in the fight against health misinformation since its launch in 2020. By mobilizing more than 800 health content creators, Fides has effectively countered misinformation and promoted evidence-based content , reaching a whopping 150 million people on various platforms. .
This incredible network enables healthcare influencers to share engaging content, support informed decision-making, and improve targeted communication, ultimately ensuring people have access to trusted health information.
WHO Director of Digital Health and Innovation Alain Labrique highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying: “Creators who understand the needs of their audience have a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between science and everyday life.
“This is where WHO can step in to help influencers deliver evidence-based information, ensuring health conversations on platforms like TikTok are impactful and informed.”
Through this partnership, TikTok and the WHO Fides network will jointly create engaging video content on various critical health topics, transforming complex scientific information into accessible and easy-to-understand formats. To empower influencers, TikTok will offer specialized training programs, enhancing their ability to develop impactful content and promote credible health information.