JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

In recent years, the field of artificial intelligence has seen rapid advancements, with models, such as large-language models and generative AI, evolving at a rapid pace. While this progress offers tremendous opportunities, it also presents risks, particularly in the creation, consumption, and amplification of information and its impact on population health and health program delivery. Thoughtful approaches are necessary to navigate the consequences of advances in AI for different healthcare professionals, patient populations, and from a policy and governance perspective. Through a collaboration between the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) Working Groups, this commentary article brings together perspectives, concerns, and aspirations from young adult professionals across five continents, each with diverse backgrounds, to explore the future of public health and AI in the context of the changing health information environment. Our discussion is divided into two parts specifically examining aspects of disinformation and AI and also the role of public health and medical professionals in a growing AI-driven health information ecosystem. The commentary concludes with five key recommendations on how to potentially address issues such as (Dis)Information overload, misinformation propagation, and resultant changes in health practices, research, ethics, and the need for robust policies that can dynamically address current and future challenges.