Think Out Loud

OSU and UP researchers break down medical mistrust in the age of social media

By Malya Fass (OPB)
May 21, 2026 1 p.m. Updated: May 21, 2026 9:21 p.m.

Broadcast: Thursday, May 21

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A recent study by Pew Research showed that half of U.S. adults under 50 get health and wellness information from influencers on social media and podcasts. One in five people surveyed said the information they get from influencers is different than the information from medical professionals.

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Ashley Hass is an assistant professor of marketing at the University of Portland, who focuses on digital marketing, social media influencers, and the digital wellness of consumers. Jonathan Garcia directs the public health graduate program at OSU. He studies medical mistrust and misinformation. They join us to share more on the impact of the wellness industry on social media and its implications for public health.

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