8.Y.2. PechaKucha: Erosion of health authorities as a menacing phenomenon disrupting information ecosystems of youths

Abstract This round table is co-organized by EUPHA-HL, EUPHA-CAPH, EUPHA-PHMR, and the WHO Collaborating Centre for Health Literacy. The event will share unique insights into novel evidence from international studies and young people's information ecosystems, how health mis- and disinformation are detrimental, and what public health and societies can do about it. Young people are growing up in digital environments where social media and online platforms are primary sources of health information, but also major channels for the rapid spread of disinformation. Evidence shows that 58% of young adults regret a health decision made based on misinformation, despite 72% expressing confidence in their ability to distinguish truth from falsehoods. While young people in Europe are ill-equipped with health literacy, this gap highlights the complex interplay between empowerment and vulnerability, as adolescents are both creators and consumers in participatory online spaces where peer influence and emotional content can override accuracy. Exposure to false health information is linked to poorer health choices, increased anxiety, and the erosion of trust in health institutions - a menacing phenomenon going on globally. Schools and education systems are vital in addressing these challenges. Integrating health literacy and critical thinking into curricula empowers students to navigate complex information environments and resist misinformation. However, many teachers lack the training and resources needed to effectively address these issues, and disparities in access to quality media literacy education persist. To promote health literacy, public health practitioners, educators, and teachers must receive targeted training in media and health literacy, as well as ongoing support to model trustworthiness and foster open dialogue. As young people face increasing pressures and uncertainties in a rapidly evolving information landscape, urgent action is needed to strengthen support systems, improve access to trustworthy health information, and build the capacity of schools and educators to empower the next generation to navigate digital health ecosystems safely and confidently. After a short introduction by the chairs, the panel members will share a short 2-to-3-minute statement from their point of view on the matter of information ecosystems and health disinformation. Following, the chairs will prepare individual questions for each panellist and engage them in a discussion, which shortly after will open towards the audience for them to participate actively with the panellists in a 30-minute discussion, also using the online Slido platform. Key messages • Gain exclusive insights into how health misinformation impacts young people and learn proven strategies to boost digital health literacy and resilience. • Connect with experts and peers to discover actionable solutions for empowering youth to navigate online health information safely and confidently. Speakers/Presenters Götz Gottschalk YouTube (Google) Germany, Berlin, Germany Kevin Dadaczynski University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany Rafaela Rosário University of Minho, Braga, Portugal Tina Purnat Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA