United KingdomIn May 2026, the UK government consulted the public on a proposed social media ban for under-16s. During this period, multiple media outlets reported that the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC) stated social media was as bad for children as smoking. However, Full Fact investigated and clarified that the AoMRC did not claim social media was equally harmful to smoking. Instead, the academy compared the medical community's response to social media with its historical reaction to smoking, noting similarities in initial skepticism and delayed action. The AoMRC emphasized that while there is concern about excessive screen time harming children, the evidence is not yet conclusive, similar to early debates around smoking. Several media outlets later corrected their reports after being informed by Full Fact.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced correction of misreported claims, clarifying the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges' actual stance without taking sides. It highlights discrepancies between media reports and the original statement, ensuring neutrality in presenting the facts.
