Author(s) :

Aadhya Rakesh.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Short-form social media platforms have become a major source of health information for adolescents, increasing concerns regarding the spread of cancer misinformation among younger audiences. This study examines the extent to which platforms such as TikTok and Instagram Reels influence the spread and belief of cancer misinformation among Gen Z students. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining a survey of 59 high school students in New Jersey with a content analysis of 50 cancerrelated social media videos. The survey measured students’ exposure to misinformation, perceptions of online cancer content, and responses to misleading posts. The content analysis evaluated the prevalence of misinformation, emotional appeal, promoted treatments, and engagement patterns within social media videos. Results showed that students frequently encounter cancer misinformation, particularly on TikTok and Instagram. Although most participants were able to identify misleading content, many expressed uncertainty regarding the accuracy of alternative cancer treatments and reported that they rarely challenge misinformation publicly. The content analysis demonstrated that a majority of analyzed videos contained unsupported or misleading claims, often using emotional language and promoting unverified treatments. These findings suggest that social media significantly contributes to the spread of cancer misinformation among Gen Z students and highlight the importance of media literacy education and evidence-based health communication.