From Knowledge Production to Public Engagement
In a research laboratory, a promising discovery about gene therapy begins to take shape. At the same time, on a messaging app, a baseless chain about supposed vaccine effects spreads rapidly. These two realities illustrate the contemporary paradox of science: we've never produced so much knowledge, but misinformation has never seemed so threatening.
While Brazilian researchers sequence genomes and develop innovative medical technologies, 73% of Brazilians seek health information on social media - environments where misinformation has become a public health problem 5 .
This article explores the journey of scientific knowledge in health: from laboratories to society, and the challenges that researchers, communicators and citizens face along this path.
of Brazilians seek health information on social media 5
investment in health research for 2025
research projects approved in 2024
The COVID-19 pandemic functioned as a social laboratory where we observed in real time the effects of misinformation on public health. According to researcher Raquel Recuero, from the Federal University of Pelotas, false narratives about public health infiltrated anti-vaccine groups, propagating misinformation throughout Brazil 1 .
Misinformation must be understood within the context of information disorder - a phenomenon not only technical but deeply political 5 .
On social media, the business model centered on user attention stimulates engagement at any cost, even if it means amplifying misleading content 5 .
"Citizens often share misinformation unknowingly, and acceptance of scientific evidence depends not only on technical data but also on cultural, moral and identity factors." - Adriana Badaró, CGEE 5
To understand the challenges of scientific communication, it's essential to understand how knowledge is produced. Health research follows a rigorous methodological path that ensures its reliability. In areas such as genomics, advances have been particularly significant.
The "genetic scissors" technique allows precise modification of DNA in living cells, opening possibilities to correct genetic mutations and develop personalized treatments 2 . Its creators received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2020.
Allows DNA and RNA sequencing in an automated and large-scale way, facilitating the identification of genetic variants associated with diseases 2 . These technologies have driven precision medicine.
Tests on human cells and tissues, followed by studies on animal models 4
Safety and dosage assessment in small groups (healthy volunteers or patients) 4
Efficacy studies in larger groups of patients 4
Confirmation of efficacy and monitoring of adverse effects in large populations 4
Post-marketing monitoring for long-term effects 4
This long and careful process ensures that only safe and effective interventions reach patients, but also creates communication challenges, as the time of science (slow and methodical) contrasts with the time of social media (immediate and accelerated).
In 2024, the Brazilian Ministry of Health approved an ambitious research project integrated into the "Genomics and Precision Public Health" call, with an investment of R$ 97.6 million . The study involves 58 projects in multiple institutions and seeks to apply genomic advances to improve the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases within the SUS.
Preliminary data already reveal associations between genetic variants and responses to medications, enabling personalized treatment strategies. One of the most significant findings involves the identification of genetic markers associated with the efficacy and toxicity of drugs used in the treatment of chronic diseases, with potential to reduce adverse effects and increase therapeutic adherence.
| Year | Investment (R$) | Number of Projects | Priority Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 561 million | To be defined | Women's Health, Oncology, Rare Diseases, Neglected Diseases |
| 2024 | 263.8 million | 336 | Genomics, Chronic Diseases, Health Misinformation |
| 2019-2022 (annual average) | 110 million | - | - |
Source: Ministry of Health
| Public Call | Amount Allocated (R$) | Number of Projects |
|---|---|---|
| Genomics and Precision Public Health | 97.6 million | 58 |
| Strategic Pre-Clinical and Clinical Research | 67.8 million | 50 |
| Chronic Diseases and Conditions (DANT) | 36.9 million | 57 |
| Socially Determined Diseases (DDS) | 33.3 million | 51 |
| Confronting Scientific Misinformation in Health | 16.0 million | 35 |
| Other Calls | 12.2 million | 85 |
| Total | 263.8 million | 336 |
Source: Ministry of Health
Contemporary health research depends on sophisticated technologies and inputs. Get to know the main tools that drive scientific discoveries:
Main function: Precise gene editing
Health applications: Correction of genetic mutations, study of gene functions, development of therapies 2
Main function: Rapid, large-scale DNA/RNA sequencing
Health applications: Molecular diagnosis, identification of genetic variants, personalized medicine 2
Main function: Collection, storage and analysis of patient data
Health applications: Translational research, outcome assessment, health management
Main function: Isolation of DNA and RNA from biological samples
Health applications: Preparation of samples for genetic analysis, molecular diagnostics
Main function: Simulation of biological systems in vitro
Health applications: Therapy testing, study of disease mechanisms, drug screening 7
Main function: Analysis of complex datasets
Health applications: Pattern identification, predictive modeling, personalized treatment 2
In addition to these tangible tools, modern research increasingly depends on data science skills and interdisciplinary collaboration. As experts highlight, the integration between big data, machine learning and artificial intelligence represents the next leap for advancing knowledge in this field 2 .
Overcoming the barrier between scientific knowledge and society requires innovative and multifaceted approaches. Research indicates that public communication of science should be understood not as a utilitarian tool, but as science itself 5 .
As Professor Graça Caldas from Unicamp highlighted, it's crucial to ensure that dissemination is not only correct but also clear and accessible 1 . This includes adapting language to different audiences, considering factors such as regional accents and familiarity with technical terms 5 .
Acceptance of scientific evidence depends not only on technical data but also on cultural, moral and identity factors 5 . Effective communicators connect scientific knowledge to the values and concerns of communities.
Health professionals, community leaders and local influencers can serve as bridges between science and their audiences. Building trust through familiar and respected voices is essential for effective science communication.
From guided visits to scientific spaces, like SESI Lab 1 , to active presence on social media, it's essential to find audiences where they are. Different platforms require different communication strategies and content formats.
allocated to confront scientific misinformation in health
projects focused on this theme
"Communication is what gives meaning to human life and, therefore, should be at the center of strategies to confront misinformation." - Ana Cristina Santos, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation 5
The journey of scientific information in health - from the laboratory bench to the citizen - is as crucial as the research itself. In a context of growing technological complexity and informational challenges, communicating science ceases to be a secondary activity to become a public health strategy.
The record investment of R$ 561 million in health research in 2025 represents not only a commitment to knowledge production but also a challenge: how to transform this investment into tangible benefits for society?
The answer seems to lie in the growing integration between researchers, communicators, managers and citizens - an ecology of knowledge where quality scientific information is recognized as a social right and tool for emancipation.
Cultivate analytical skills to evaluate information
Value evidence-based approaches to knowledge
Engage in evidence-based conversations about health and science
In the interconnected world of the 21st century, individual and collective health depends not only on technological advances but also on our collective ability to distinguish scientific knowledge from misinformation.