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⚕️ Celebrity Doctors & TikTok GPs In recent years, social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have become influential ...
06/10/2025

⚕️ Celebrity Doctors & TikTok GPs

In recent years, social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have become influential in shaping public perceptions of healthcare. The rise of celebrity doctors and TikTok GPs has introduced a new dynamic in how medical information is disseminated and consumed in the UK.

While this trend has democratised health knowledge and increased accessibility, it has also raised concerns about the accuracy of medical advice and its impact on patients’ trust in traditional healthcare systems.

Impact on Public Trust in Healthcare

The influence of social media on healthcare has had a dual effect on public trust. On one hand, the accessibility of information has empowered individuals to take charge of their health. On the other hand, the proliferation of unverified content has led to confusion and skepticism.

A study revealed that 80% of individuals view health and s*xual health advice on social media, with 16% engaging with it regularly. Despite this high engagement, only 43% of users believe the content they encounter is accurate, indicating a significant gap in trust .

Furthermore, 43% of physicians express concern that TikTok spreads misinformation about treatments, highlighting the challenges in ensuring the reliability of health information on social media platforms .

The Role of TikTok's Clinician Creator Network

In response to these concerns, TikTok launched the UK Clinician Creator Network. Comprised of 19 verified clinicians, including GPs, surgeons, and mental health experts, the network aims to provide users with reliable, science-based health advice in a format that’s accessible and engaging.

These clinicians create short videos covering topics such as reproductive health, mental wellbeing, vaccinations, and chronic illness management, reaching millions of users who may not engage with traditional health services. Since its launch, the network has been instrumental in boosting the visibility of credible health voices on TikTok, helping to bridge the gap between young audiences and professional medical guidance.

One of its key successes is the ability to counter viral myths in real-time, by using the same tools as influencers, but with clinical expertise. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the role social media plays in public health education and the need to ensure it is grounded in evidence, not entertainment alone.

Despite the benefits, the integration of social media into healthcare communication presents several challenges. The oversimplification of complex medical information for the sake of engagement can lead to misinterpretation and potential harm.

Additionally, the lack of regulation and oversight on platforms like TikTok raises ethical concerns regarding patient privacy and the dissemination of medical advice.

Physicians have expressed apprehension about the erosion of professional credibility due to the informal nature of social media interactions. The line between professional medical advice and personal opinions can become blurred, complicating the public's ability to discern credible sources .

Concerns Around Online Medical Influencers

Not all content creators are registered professionals, and even those who are may inadvertently oversimplify or generalise advice in short-form content. According to a Sermo report, 43% of doctors globally expressed concern that TikTok and similar platforms contribute to the spread of health misinformation. Furthermore, the lack of regulatory oversight on platforms like TikTok means misleading or non-evidence-based advice can go viral, reaching millions before it can be corrected or flagged.

The blurring of lines between entertainment and education is another issue. Some creators may prioritise virality over accuracy, leading to clickbait health claims or dramatic representations of medical conditions that could mislead viewers. Even verified professionals can contribute to the problem by giving advice without proper context or disclaimers, which can result in inappropriate self-diagnosis or treatment.

Numerous cases have highlighted how quickly misinformation can spread via social media. For instance, during the Covid-19 pandemic, TikTok and Instagram were rife with posts suggesting inaccurate prevention methods. These included gargling vinegar or taking high doses of vitamins as a cure; none of which are supported by scientific evidence.

Another example includes misleading content around ADHD and autism, where some influencers have shared overly simplistic or inaccurate self-diagnosis checklists. These posts can be harmful, especially to younger users, by creating unnecessary health anxiety or encouraging them to pursue unnecessary private tests and treatments.

In one particularly notable instance, a TikTok trend encouraged women to use boric acid suppositories for vaginal health, without medical oversight, leading to a wave of warnings from doctors about the potential risks of chemical burns and infections. Despite expert corrections, the trend amassed millions of views before platforms began moderating related content.

How Users Can Protect Themselves

To stay safe online, users should adopt a critical mindset when consuming health content. First and foremost, verify the credentials of any health professional offering advice. In the UK, doctors can be checked through the General Medical Council’s register (www.gmc-uk.org) to confirm their legitimacy. It's also important to look for evidence-based advice. Reputable medical influencers often cite NHS guidelines, peer-reviewed studies, or official public health resources.

Users should be wary of overly dramatic, one-size-fits-all advice or anything that promises quick cures. Reliable creators will typically include disclaimers that their advice is not a substitute for a consultation with a healthcare provider and will encourage viewers to seek professional help when necessary.

Additionally, platforms like TikTok have started promoting authoritative content through partnerships, such as the TikTok Clinician Creator Network, which includes verified NHS professionals to provide accurate, science-backed information. Users should follow these verified accounts and avoid engaging with unregulated content from non-medical influencers.

A Transforming Landscape

The advent of celebrity doctors and TikTok GPs has undeniably transformed the landscape of healthcare communication in the UK. While these platforms have democratised access to medical information and fostered greater public engagement, they have also introduced complexities regarding the accuracy and reliability of health content.

As social media continues to play a pivotal role in shaping public perceptions of healthcare, it is essential for both medical professionals and platform providers to collaborate in promoting accurate, evidence-based information.

By doing so, they can ensure that the benefits of social media in healthcare are maximised while mitigating potential risks, thereby maintaining and enhancing public trust in healthcare systems.
https://diagnosticvision.com/news/celebrity-doctors-tiktok-gps

⚕️ The Private GP Services Boom in London The UK’s private healthcare sector is experiencing a significant transformatio...
29/09/2025

⚕️ The Private GP Services Boom in London

The UK’s private healthcare sector is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by technological advancements and a growing demand for personalised, timely care.

This shift is characterised by the rise of virtual GP services and exclusive health memberships, catering for a diverse range of patients seeking alternatives to traditional health systems.

The surge in private healthcare usage can be attributed to several factors. A significant driver is the increasing pressure on the NHS (National Health Service), leading to longer waiting times for appointments and treatments. As of early 2023, NHS waiting lists had reached record highs, prompting many individuals to seek faster alternatives.

Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerabilities of the public healthcare system, leading to a greater appreciation for private healthcare options. The desire for timely and personalised care has become a priority for many, particularly among younger demographics who value convenience and efficiency.

Financial considerations also play a role. With the average cost of a comprehensive private medical insurance policy at approximately £1,033 per year, many individuals are opting to pay out of pocket for specific treatments to avoid prolonged waiting times.

Zoom GP Apps: Revolutionising Access to Healthcare

Virtual GP services, often referred to as 'Zoom GP' apps, have gained popularity for their convenience and accessibility.

Platforms like Push Doctor, Livi, and Babylon Health allow patients to consult with healthcare professionals via video calls, often within minutes. These services are particularly appealing to individuals seeking quick consultations without the need to visit a clinic.

Babylon Health

Babylon Health is a leading telemedicine provider in the UK, offering patients access to healthcare services via an app. The service allows users to consult with doctors through video calls, text messaging, and AI-powered health assessments.
Babylon's AI-powered symptom checker is one of its standout features, enabling users to get instant advice based on their symptoms. The platform has expanded rapidly, partnering with the NHS to provide services like GP consultations and healthcare guidance, significantly increasing its user base.

Livi

Livi is a popular telehealth platform that connects patients with qualified GPs through video consultations. The service is widely used across the UK, particularly in regions where accessing in-person care can be difficult.
Livi’s strength lies in its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with the NHS, offering services like repeat prescriptions, consultations for various medical conditions, and referrals to specialists when necessary.
Patients are often drawn to Livi for its convenience, with appointments available within hours, even on weekends. Livi has also partnered with the NHS to offer virtual GP services to a broader demographic.

Push Doctor

Push Doctor is another prominent virtual healthcare service that provides patients with remote GP consultations. It offers access to qualified GPs via video consultations, and in some cases, patients can receive prescriptions directly following their consultation.
Push Doctor aims to reduce waiting times and provide convenient access to medical advice for people with busy schedules. It is one of the first telemedicine platforms to integrate with the NHS, allowing users to book appointments online and receive a quick response to non-urgent medical concerns.

However, in spite of the popularity of these platforms, accessibility remains a concern. While these services are widely available, they often require a stable internet connection and may not be suitable for individuals without digital literacy skills. Moreover, the quality of care can vary, and some patients may prefer in-person consultations for more complex medical issues.

Luxury Health Memberships

On the other end of the spectrum, luxury health memberships are redefining the patient experience. Establishments like KX Life in Chelsea and The Wellness Clinic in Mayfair offer comprehensive health services, including personalised wellness plans, advanced diagnostics, and access to top-tier medical professionals.
These memberships often provide 24/7 concierge services, ensuring that members receive prompt and personalised care whenever needed.

The appeal of luxury health memberships lies in their holistic approach to health and wellness. They focus not only on treating illnesses but also on preventive care and overall well-being. Members benefit from tailored fitness programs, nutritional guidance, and mental health support, all within a luxurious and supportive environment.

However, these services come at a premium. Membership fees can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of pounds annually, making them accessible primarily to high-net-worth individuals. This exclusivity raises questions about the equity of healthcare access and the potential for a two-tier system.

The Future of Private Healthcare

As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, the demand for both virtual and luxury private healthcare services is expected to grow. Technological advancements will likely play a pivotal role in expanding access to care, while the emphasis on personalised and preventive services will shape the offerings of luxury health memberships.

However, the expansion of private healthcare raises important questions about the future of the NHS and the accessibility of healthcare services for all individuals. Balancing innovation and inclusivity will be crucial in ensuring that advancements in healthcare benefit the entire population.
https://diagnosticvision.com/news/private-gp-services-boom-london

⚕️ AI in Health: Getting To The Heart Of The Matter Many experts have theorized on the possibilities that Artificial int...
18/09/2025

⚕️ AI in Health: Getting To The Heart Of The Matter

Many experts have theorized on the possibilities that Artificial intelligence (AI) holds for the medical profession. However, one area which has left a blazing trail in breaking news reports is the potential that AI has to transform every facet of cardiovascular research and practice.

AI and machine learning tools are able to process enormous amounts of data to provide precision diagnoses and treatments, and these same methods can be applied to heart health.

Groundbreaking Innovation Welcomes In New Possibilities

GE HealthCare recently announced the launch of a pivotal AI-powered tool, Flyrcado. In an official statement given to the media, Eigil Samset, general manager of Cardiology Solutions at GE HealthCare, announced: “The future of healthcare lies in the integration of advanced technologies with human expertise, allowing for a more holistic, data-driven and efficient cardiology care pathway. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, so it is critical that we continue our commitment to innovations in this space – our newest solutions showcased at ACC will help transform and optimize the diagnostic workflow.”

Flyrcado is FDA-approvaed and is for patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Its application allows for more effective, efficient diagnosis of cardiac conditions than Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI), the predominant procedure used in nuclear cardiology today.

It is estimated that about six million MPI procedures are undertaken each year. These are used to show blood flow through the heart muscle to detect any anomalies and concerns. PET is the most effective form of MPI.

Flyrcado is able to combine exercise stress testing with cardiac PET imaging for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). “The launch of Flyrcado represents a significant advancement in cardiac care, providing a new, highly effective diagnostic tool for those with known or suspected coronary artery disease,” said Eric Ruedinger, vice president and general manager of GE HealthCare’s Pharmaceutical Diagnostics segment for the U.S. and Canada.

Combining AI With Heart Care Technology

A report issued by the American Heart Association in the Circulation journal highlights further areas in heart care which can be transformed through AI-powered technology. Here are just some of them:

Electrocardiography

This field of science concerns the heart’s electrical activity. AI is able to facilitate ECG interpretation through identifying subtle results which human professionals are unable to see. As a result, changes and abnormalities which aren’t yet evident can be detected by AI.

Imaging

Imaging is important for diagnosis and treatment. Advancements in AI and machine learning have made it possible to process cardiac and brain images in such a way that inconsistencies in human interpretation are ruled out. At the same time, AI’s capacity to handle large amounts of data, as given through images, can also help to relieve overburdened professionals.

Wearable & Implantable Technologies

These technologies are used to provide continued monitoring of health conditions, as well as to facilitate the necessary intervention. AI and machine learning can aid the remote monitoring which these technological devices require.

Genetics

AI algorithms have the ability to detect genetic abnormalities and variants.

There have been many historic milestones in the treatment of heart conditions through the decades. In 1967, Christiaan Barnard performed the first human-to-human heart transplant operation.

The advent of AI is another pivotal milestone and according to expert assessments and predictions, the most significant one.
https://diagnosticvision.com/technology/ai-health-the-heart-of-the-matter

11/09/2025

⚕️ Commercialisation underway for LVOne: A ‘Game-Changer’ For Stroke Detection

In a significant development for emergency medicine and neurology, Cambridge-based Upfront Diagnostics has raised $4.3 million to accelerate the commercialisation of its innovative stroke detection blood test, LVOne.

The funding, led by Phoenix Investments and supported by Cambridge Enterprise Ventures and SBRI Healthcare, is set to bring this groundbreaking diagnostic tool to healthcare systems in the UK and potentially to global markets.

The LVOne test offers a fast, accurate, and non-invasive method for confirming strokes. This development is critical in a field where every minute can determine the outcome for a patient.

What Is LVOne?

LVOne is a blood-based diagnostic test designed to rapidly identify whether a person is experiencing a stroke. Traditional methods typically depend on neurological assessments and brain imaging techniques, such as CT or MRI scans.

While effective, these methods can be slow to access, especially in rural or under-resourced settings. LVOne offers a lab-based alternative that delivers reliable results quickly and without the need for expensive imaging equipment.

The test detects biomarkers in the blood. These are released when a stroke occurs. These molecules signal changes in the brain, such as tissue damage, and can provide evidence of a stroke even before imaging is available.

This early detection capability means clinicians can make more informed decisions faster, potentially even in pre-hospital settings, such as ambulances or urgent care clinics.

The Story of LVOne

The story of LVOne began in Cambridge, where a team of scientists and clinicians came together to address one of the biggest challenges in stroke care. This, being delayed diagnosis.

Despite improvements in stroke treatment, many patients still suffer from missed treatment windows due to the time it takes to confirm a diagnosis. Upfront Diagnostics was founded to close this gap by creating a test that could bring high-quality stroke diagnostics out of the hospital and into the field.

Development began several years ago with clinical trials conducted in collaboration with (National Health Service) NHS institutions and academic researchers. These trials helped validate the test’s effectiveness and laid the groundwork for regulatory approval. The new funding round is a major turning point, enabling the company to scale up production, expand clinical trials, and begin the regulatory processes required for wide-scale implementation.

How Does It Work?

The science behind LVOne centres on a panel of biomarkers. These include proteins and molecules which are released by neurons and supporting brain cells during a stroke.

These markers differ between ischemic strokes, which result from a blood clot, and hemorrhagic strokes, which are caused by bleeding in the brain. LVOne’s ability to distinguish between stroke types is critical for guiding the appropriate medical response.

LVOne delivers results in about 15 to 30 minutes. The test is being developed for use in emergency departments, ambulances, and eventually in point-of-care clinics.

It is designed to be easy to administer and interpret, even by medical professionals without specialised radiology training. This means that stroke diagnosis can potentially be initiated much earlier, particularly in remote areas or during transport to a hospital.

In time-sensitive situations, such as when differentiating strokes from conditions like migraines, seizures, or transient ischemic attacks, the value of such a tool is immense. Quick diagnosis leads to quicker treatment, and in stroke care, that can mean preventing permanent disability or death.

The Far-Reaching Impact of LVOne

The implications that LVOne can have on medical science and emergency care are far-reaching. At scale, it could redefine how stroke protocols are handled. Paramedics could use the test en route to the hospital, giving emergency rooms a critical head start for planning treatment. Hospitals could use it to assess patients more efficiently, reducing wait times and improving overall patient flow. In research settings, LVOne could be used to better identify and categorise stroke patients for clinical studies, improving the development of new therapies.

Stroke Diagnosis Advancements Through The Years

The last decade has brought several important advancements in stroke prevention and treatment.

Mechanical thrombectomy has become a standard intervention for large vessel blockages, significantly improving outcomes for many patients. Mobile stroke units with on-board CT scanners have appeared in some cities, allowing for faster diagnosis and treatment in the field. Wearable technology and artificial intelligence tools are now used to monitor at-risk individuals for atrial fibrillation, a leading cause of stroke. Telemedicine platforms have further enabled neurologists to provide remote consultations in emergency rooms where specialists are not available.

These innovations have expanded the reach and quality of stroke care, but they all depend on timely detection. This is where LVOne is expected to have the greatest impact, through acting as the first line of defense when symptoms appear.
https://diagnosticvision.com/diagnostics/commercialisation-underway-for-lvone-a-game-changer-for-stroke-detection

⚕️ ‘Hidden Assassins’ To Revolutionise Cancer Treatment? Around 60 clinical trials are currently underway for a new form...
01/09/2025

⚕️ ‘Hidden Assassins’ To Revolutionise Cancer Treatment?

Around 60 clinical trials are currently underway for a new form of treatment which causes 'tumour meltdown', according to Chinese scientists.

This innovative research has made news headlines and has been called oncolytic virus therapy.

The basis for the therapy is in using viruses which have been modified in labs. These are then used to infiltrate tumours, disarming them from the inside-out. Reports have called them 'hidden assassins', in that they are able to replicate themselves from within cancer cells, and then explode them as microscopic grenades.

At the same time, they are able to cause the release of valuable proteins. These specific proteins are able to fortify the immune system to be able to track down and eradicate the remaining cancer cells.

It all sounds like a secret service operation but doctors are confident that they are onto something big which could revolutionise cancer treatment. In fact, headlines read that this is the 'next frontier' for cancer treatment.

Genetically Engineered Viruses: What Does This Entail?

A report by the National Institutes of Health highlights the 'formidable challenge of treating cancer', which it continues, '... if advanced, still remains with no significant improvement in survival rates'.

The report praises oncolytic viral therapies as having 'great promise preclinically and in clinical trials for the treatment of various cancers'.

These oncolytic vaccinia virus (VACV) strains have efficient and fast replication, and they also have an 'impressive safety profile', says the report. The process whereby they destroy cancerous cells is called 'cell lysis'. This process causes destruction of the cancerous cells, while leaving non-cancerous tissue unharmed.

Constantin Levaditi (1874 - 1953), a pioneer in immunology and virology, was the first to discover that VACVs are naturally oncolytic. However, it is only in recent years that the zeal for using viruses as a strategy against cancer and tumours has been fuelled. This has been reignited as technology and scientific knowledge have advanced.

The tools we now have, including AI, can be used to engineer more effective and targeted viruses.

Clinical Trials Resume, Results Look Promising

Several oncolytic viruses continue to undergo the stringent observations and testing of clinical trials. Many have shown promising results. One of these includes talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC). This is a Herpes Simplex Virus which has been modified and which has been called an FDA-approved oncolytic virus therapy to treat advanced skin cancer.

The praises across news channels and medical reports seem unanimous; the revolutionary treatment is a 'game-changer'. "Ongoing trials for various cancers, such as brain tumour, pancreatic cancer, and ovarian cancer, hold the potential to open a new frontier in the fight against cancer," says The Big News Network.
https://diagnosticvision.com/research/hidden-assassins-cancer-treatment

⚕️ Why Hormone Health Is Trending, and Why That’s a Good Thing In 2025, awareness around hormone health is rising rapidl...
28/08/2025

⚕️ Why Hormone Health Is Trending, and Why That’s a Good Thing

In 2025, awareness around hormone health is rising rapidly, fuelled by an increase in diagnoses, technological advancements in testing, and the influence of celebrities and social media influencers speaking openly about their hormonal struggles.

Hormone health refers to the proper balance and functioning of the body’s hormonal systems. When hormones are in balance, the body operates efficiently. However, even slight imbalances can lead to a wide array of physical and emotional symptoms.

Key hormones affecting women include estrogen and progesterone, which are vital for menstrual regulation, fertility, and bone health. Testosterone, although typically thought of as a male hormone, also affects women’s libido, muscle strength, and mood. Cortisol, known as the stress hormone, impacts metabolism and immune function.
Thyroid hormones such as T3 and T4 regulate energy production and temperature control, while insulin governs blood sugar and fat storage. DHEA, a lesser-known hormone, contributes to the production of s*x hormones and can influence mood and skin condition.

Hormonal Imbalance: A Widespread but Often Overlooked Issue

Hormonal imbalances are being diagnosed with increasing frequency, though many women still go undiagnosed for years.

Polycystic O***y Syndrome (PCOS), one of the most common hormonal disorders, affects an estimated 2 to 20 percent of women of reproductive age, depending on the diagnostic criteria used.

Menopause, a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurs around age 51 or 52 in North America, and is often accompanied by disruptive symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

Additionally, thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, disproportionately affect women and are sometimes misdiagnosed as depression or chronic fatigue.

Recognising the Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance

The signs of hormonal imbalance can be subtle at first, but they often affect multiple systems in the body. Many women report menstrual irregularities such as missed or unusually heavy periods. Mood changes, including increased irritability, anxiety, and depression, are also common.

Persistent fatigue despite sufficient rest, changes in skin (such as adult acne or dryness), and hair thinning are often overlooked symptoms that may point to hormonal issues. Weight gain or loss that isn’t tied to diet or exercise, as well as difficulties sleeping, can also be red flags. Because these symptoms can overlap with other health issues, women are encouraged to seek hormonal testing when multiple signs persist over time.

While medical treatment may be necessary in some cases, many women can support hormonal balance through lifestyle choices.
Nutrition
Nutrition plays a foundational role. Eating a diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, fibre, and lean proteins can help stabilise hormones.
Exercise
Regular exercise is another key component, especially strength training and moderate cardio, which help regulate insulin and reduce cortisol levels.
Adequate Sleep
Getting consistent, quality sleep, ideally seven to nine hours per night, gives the body a chance to repair and regulate.
Stress Management
Stress management is equally important, with practices like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing shown to lower cortisol.
Avoiding Endocrine Disrupters
Avoiding endocrine disruptors, such as BPA and phthalates found in plastics and cosmetics, is also recommended to protect the body’s hormonal integrity.

One of the driving forces behind the growing awareness of hormone health is the willingness of public figures to speak out about their experiences. Victoria Beckham has spoken candidly about her struggles with PCOS and how it affected her energy levels and skin.

Actress Keke Palmer brought attention to hormonal acne and the emotional toll it can take, while Florence Pugh has recently opened up about her experience with early menopause and the lack of societal understanding around the condition. These stories resonate with everyday women and are helping to destigmatise hormonal conditions that were once considered private or taboo.

Why Hormone Health Is Trending Now

Several cultural and technological shifts have contributed to the spotlight on hormone health in 2025. First, more women are actively seeking answers to unexplained symptoms and pushing for better diagnostic tools and treatment.

Second, the rise of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram has made it easier for individuals to share their personal health journeys, creating communities of support and education.

Healthcare itself is evolving, with improved blood tests, at-home hormone kits, and integrative approaches making it easier than ever to get a diagnosis and create a treatment plan. Additionally, there is a larger societal move toward holistic, preventive healthcare, and hormone health fits squarely into that narrative.

As conversations about hormone health become more mainstream, there is an opportunity to transform how women approach their well-being. By recognising the importance of hormonal balance, staying alert to symptoms, and adopting healthy habits, women can take proactive steps to support their health at every life stage.

With greater awareness, better access to care, and a more open culture, 2025 may well be the year hormone health finally gets the attention it deserves.
https://diagnosticvision.com/news/hormone-health-is-trending

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