Surgeon General urges health warnings on social media targeted at younger users

The U.S. surgeon general, Vivek H. Murthy, has recently called for social media platforms to include health warnings for younger users. In an op-ed published in The New York Times, Murthy stated that it is time to require a surgeon general’s warning label on social media platforms, specifically stating that social media is associated with significant mental health harms for adolescents.

Last year, Murthy’s office issued an advisory on social media use and its possible effects on teenage users. He urged social media companies to prioritize safety and privacy in their product designs and enforce minimum age requirements. This call to action comes as concerns about the impact of social media on mental health continue to grow, particularly among younger users.

As this story continues to develop, please check back for updates on any new information or actions taken. ABC News’ Ahmad Hemingway, Dr. Amanda Kravitz, and Dr. Mariam Gomaa have contributed to this report, providing insights and expertise on the potential risks associated with social media use for adolescents.