Popular Media and Cardiovascular Medicine: “with Great Power There Must Also Come Great Responsibility”

Purpose of Review: Media sources, such as the Internet, television, and social media, have become powerful communication tools that have transformed the way medical information is acquired across the world. Recent Findings: Over 40% of today’s patients report that social media affects their healthcare decisions, and approximately 65% of healthcare professionals report using social media for professional activities. These enhanced communication tools have made a substantial impact on the widespread dissemination of medical information. However, as a consequence, popular media platforms have also become purveyors of medical misinformation. Summary: In this review, we propose a framework for clinicians on how to effectively and appropriately integrate medical information available via online resources including social media platforms into modern healthcare practices.