As my husband and I were discussing ways to improve our son's sleep schedule, I shared with him an interesting connection between brain growth and quality sleep. He jokingly remarked, "You know, this topic has the potential to gain immense popularity if a random, famous YouTuber talked about it, even if they couldn't pass their high school boards." We both laughed over it but later left me pondering the truth behind it.
It's disheartening to witness the declining credibility and quality of advice, which seems to be paving the way for a dangerous dystopian world. I recall an incident from my early days of practice when a young woman confidently suggested to my consultant the benefits of cow milk for her four-month-old infant, citing information she had learned from YouTube. The consultant appeared helpless, and I couldn't help but marvel at the audacity of the woman to challenge someone who had emerged as the top expert in Asia's largest center for child health.
Another unforgettable experience was during a flight with my two-month-old son, where, within just 30 minutes of takeoff a fellow passenger suffered a seizure. I was called upon to provide immediate assistance. With the limited resources available in the first aid kit, I managed the situation and advised the crew to make an emergency landing. In the aftermath of that incident, a friend asked why it hadn't gone "viral" yet. However, I found myself waiting for someone to inquire about how to handle such situations when professional help is not readily available.
It's unfortunate to see people blindly following the advice of YouTubers, a random gym trainer's advice on fad protein diets, sharing diagnoses from irrelevant sources, or seeking health tips from nauseating Instagram reels. The confidence displayed by individuals with limited competence and questionable qualifications, as they freely offer ideas and suggestions in areas where they lack skill, never ceases to amaze me.
On the other hand, I have had the privilege of knowing remarkable individuals. My Classmate who courageously held a patient in severe distress and rushed her to the nearest ventilator. My senior, who saved the life of a 4 year old from a life-threatening anaphylaxis. A surgeon who felt determined to take action on a ruptured gall bladder. Department head who recommended an echocardiogram based on specific rash he observed in a child. And mentors who could detect a child's impending diabetic ketoacidosis simply by the odour of their breath. These are the stories that truly deserve to go viral.
These are the stories that should be shared and learned from. Unfortunately, they often go unnoticed, with few people even aware of their existence.
One of the most valuable lessons I learned from my consultant was the importance of speaking up and educating others, even if they choose not to listen or follow our advice. After all, the true essence of being a doctor is that of a teacher, and our ultimate goal, regardless of our individual motivations for pursuing this career, is to help others.
In a world filled with countless sources of advice, it is crucial to choose our advisors wisely.
It is crucial that we actively seek out guidance and inspiration from credible sources, empowering us to make wise decisions!
The Health Infodemic!