The Tribune

Are men really influenced by social media?

A new Cleveland Clinic survey reveals that despite some men not trusting what they see online, they are letting social media influence their behaviours. The MENtion It Survey shows that 74 per cent of men, don’t trust health information shared by influencers, yet 39 per cent of them admit that they have tried a health or wellness trend after seeing it on social media.

The survey is part of Cleveland Clinic’s 11th annual MENtion It campaign,, which aims to encourage men to talk more openly about their health. This year’s survey examined men’s health in the age of social media trends and online influencers.

“So much about men’s health has been in the national conversation recently, including male fertility rates, testosterone replacement therapy, and the viral health-maxxing trends of everything under the sun,” said Petar Bajic, MD, director of the Men’s Health Section at Cleveland Clinic’s Glickman Urological Institute.

“We wanted to get a better idea of the influence and emotional impact that social media can have on men and if it’s changing their health habits and attitudes.”

The national survey of over 1,000 US men found that 74 per cent rarely or never trust health information shared by influencers, yet 39 per cent admit they have tried a new diet or wellness trend after seeing it on social media.

The survey illustrated the idea that while social media can motivate men to improve their health, it can also fuel pressure and comparison. After seeing content on social media:

•    73 per cent feel motivated to improve their health

•    69 per cent feel concerned about their health

•    44 per cent  compare their body, fitness level or overall health to others on social media

Additionally, the survey results highlight the potential danger in using the internet to replace seeing a health care professional. Two in 5 men (40 per cent ) say they attempt to self-diagnose based on information found on social media, and nearly one-third of men (30per cent ) use supplements or performance enhancers promoted on social media, which can be dangerous if the user is not seeing a medical professional to get a diagnosis and prescription.

When it comes to men’s health topics that have been trending in the news, the survey showed that myths about testosterone and men’s fertility are still very prevalent.

•    Half of men (50 per cent ) don’t recognise that lifestyle choices can impact sperm quality

•    28 per cent  believe testosterone therapy can improve sexual performance

•    About a quarter of men (23 per cent) believe testosterone therapy could make men feel younger

The survey also revealed misinformation surrounding negative lifestyle habits and their effects on men’s health. According to the survey, many men are unaware that the following lifestyle behaviours can affect sexual performance and/or cause erectile dysfunction:

•    51 per cent smoking cigarettes or vaping

•    62 per cent marijuana use

•    40 per cent obesity

•    49 per cent  poor exercise habits

•    34 per cent consuming alcohol

“We learned that American men are becoming more engaged in their health, but they're increasingly navigating a landscape shaped by social media, misinformation and self-directed care,” said Dr Bajic. “We want to remind men that being proactive with your health by exercising and getting regular screenings, vaccinations and exams can help prevent many health problems or catch them in curable stages.”