Health Literacy and Countering Misinformation
The Health Literacy and Countering Misinformation topic at the Public Health World Conference (PHWC) 2026 focuses on how individuals can better understand health information and counter health misinformation. The topic also focuses on how individuals can effectively communicate health information and educate people to promote health literacy.
During PHWC 2026, experts will focus on building public trust and countering health misinformation through effective communication. The topic will also focus on how the media and health workers can help in disseminating health information.
Participants will learn ways to improve digital health literacy and empower people to critically review health information from all types of sources. Sessions will examine how social media platforms, fact-checking tools, and community outreach efforts can help decrease the volume of misinformed information. Participants will evaluate successful health-promoting campaigns using these methods that resulted in increased public understanding and trust in health systems. Culturally appropriate communication, transparency, and a collaborative approach between all stakeholders (healthcare providers, the media, and public health officials) will be emphasized. Ultimately, by promoting informed decision-making and responsible sharing of health-related information, this session will increase public trust and ultimately contribute to a higher level of public health.
Misinformation and low health literacy seriously affect public health interventions, causing vaccine refusal and unhealthy outcomes. The contribution of media, social networks, and public institutions to public understanding of health will be discussed during this session at the Public Health World Conference (PHWC). The panelists will explore ways to enhance health education, build confidence in healthcare systems, and challenge misinformation using evidence-based communication. The session will discuss how online platforms contribute to spreading or preventing false information. Successful public health interventions that advocate for science-based messaging will be taught. Models for community engagement in improving health literacy will also be shared.