Steven Bartlett’s podcast criticised for spreading health misinformation
The investigation analysed 15 health-related episodes of the podcast, uncovering an average of 14 harmful health claims. These claims often contradicted established scientific evidence. Examples include assertions that cancer can be treated with a ketogenic diet rather than proven medical treatments, anti-vaccine conspiracies, and suggestions that conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and autism can be “reversed” through dietary changes.
Experts expressed concern that Bartlett failed to challenge these claims adequately, posing risks to public health.
Bartlett’s production company, Flight Studio, defended the podcast’s approach, stating that guests are granted “freedom of expression” and are “thoroughly researched” before appearing on the show. However, BBC World Service’s investigation, which consulted four medical experts, highlighted the potential dangers of airing unverified claims.
The experts flagged concerns about promoting diet-based ‘cures’ for serious health conditions and conspiratorial content about COVID-19.
While some health experts featured on the podcast shared accurate information, the majority of episodes reviewed between April and November contained misleading and potentially harmful advice. Critics have argued that Bartlett’s platform risks creating distrust in conventional medicine by failing to adequately scrutinise or refute such claims.
“Podcasters may claim they are sharing information, but they are actually sharing harmful misinformation,” Prof David Grimes from Trinity College Dublin told the BBC. “That’s a very different and not empowering thing. It actually imperils all our health.”
