Dr. Zachary Rubin: Combating Medical Misinformation Requires Knowledge and Communication Skills
Pediatric allergist and immunologist Dr. Zachary Rubin shares his experience fighting medical misinformation online, emphasizing the importance of scientific literacy and embracing uncertainty.
Introduction
Dr. Zachary Rubin, a pediatric allergist and immunologist, is the author of "All About Allergies" and an active science communicator on social media. He regularly posts content on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, often appearing with a small microphone and his signature bowtie. His mission is to counter medical misinformation, which, as he says, walks from the internet straight into his exam room.
Why He Became a Doctor
Rubin says he has always been fascinated by how the human body works. Medicine combines science, problem-solving, and the privilege of helping people in vulnerable moments. Allergy and immunology appealed to him because the immune system touches nearly every aspect of health, and many patients can improve dramatically with the right diagnosis.
Why Engage Online
Rubin emphasizes that misinformation doesn't stay online; it enters his clinic every day. Patients deserve access to understandable, evidence-based information before they need a doctor. Social media allows him to reach millions with the same conversations he has in clinic. His goal is not to tell people what to think, but to help them think critically about health claims.
What He Wishes People Understood About Science
Rubin stresses that uncertainty is not a weakness—it's one of science's greatest strengths. Science is not a collection of immutable facts but a process to get closer to the truth. Good scientists change their minds when better evidence emerges. Unfortunately, this can look like inconsistency to the public, when it's actually how progress happens.
Rewards and Challenges of Countering Misinformation
The most rewarding part is hearing someone say, "I changed my mind." That's rare, but it reminds him that respectful conversations can still make a difference. The hardest part is that misinformation spreads faster than nuance. A confident but false statement can go viral in minutes, while explaining the evidence takes much longer. Algorithms that reward outrage make it an uphill battle, which is why more physicians and scientists need to join the conversation.
What the US Can Do Better
Rubin notes that the US has a remarkable history of scientific discovery thanks to investment in research and innovation. However, scientific literacy can be improved. People should be taught how to evaluate evidence, not just memorize facts. At the same time, scientists and physicians need to become better communicators. If they don't explain their work clearly, others will fill that void. Trust is built by being honest about what we know, what we don't know, and how we're working to find out.
