Sign in

ScienceUpFirst

@scienceupfirst.bsky.social
797 followers 83 following 289 posts

An initiative of the Canadian Association of Science Centres. We are a broad networks of experts and researchers addressing misinformation on social media in clear and creative ways. Consult our referenced posts and vetted resources: ScienceUpFirst.com

PostsRepliesMedia
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
When it comes to getting vaccinated, convenience is one of the most important factors. This comment we received reminds us of one of the three C’s of vaccine hesitancy – can you name the other two? 😉 Sources: tinyurl.com/SUFVaxConvenience #ScienceUpFirst
052
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Feeling awash in a sea of information with no idea of what’s fact or fiction? That’s the Firehose of Falsehood technique, you can read all about it in our newest comic. 👇 scienceupfirst.com/misinformati... #ScienceUpFirst
050
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
Gender-affirming care saves lives. ❤️ The journey will look different from person to person, but gender affirming care allows for individuals to live life more authentically. Swipe through to learn more and check our full post here: www.scienceupfirst.com/project/gend... #ScienceUpFirst
031
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 21/09/2026
Using refined sugar in your muffins doesn't mean you've made a “bad” choice. Sometimes, sugar is just sugar, and that's okay. ❤️ How come? 👇 scienceupfirst.com/nutrition/yo... #ScienceUpFirst
Honey is being dripped on top of a cupcake. A text reads: “Fancy Sugar is still sugar. You can stop feeling guilty about using refined sugar… you're welcome.”
061
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
Are we the only ones seeing more push on social media for full body MRI scans? Unless you have a specific reason to get one or are considered at risk, they are not proven to help improve your health or extend your life. 👇 scienceupfirst.com/misinformati... #ScienceUpFirst
An MRI machine is shown on a pink background and a price tag of $3500. A text reads “Full-body MRI. Are they worth the price tag?”
250
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Yesterday was World Suicide Prevention Day. That’s why we have decided to collaborate with @988canada.bsky.social and @camhnews.bsky.social to change the narrative around suicide and make this year all about talking, listening and caring differently. ♥️ scienceupfirst.com/mental-healt...
On a pink background with flowers a text reads: "There's a lot that can be misunderstood about suicide. But we can't prevent what we're afraid to talk about. Let's clear up some misconnections and change the narrative on suicide.
051
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
The MMR vaccine is safe and effective. There’s no new evidence that splitting it into 3 separate shots would make it safer. What it would mean: more appointments, more injections, and more chances for doses to be delayed or missed. Read more here 👇 scienceupfirst.com/public-healt...
051
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
When you see a conspiracy theory like this, it’s probably easy for you to brush it off. But these theories aren’t popular because of their logic! Understanding what to watch for can help protect you in the future. 👀 scienceupfirst.com/misinformati... #ScienceUpFirst
031
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
A drug or vaccine doesn’t go from the lab to the market overnight. 🔬💉 Before it becomes available in Canada, it goes through multiple steps. Read more about them here 👇 scienceupfirst.com/misinformati... #ScienceUpFirst
094
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
It never feels good realizing you’ve shared false information online, but it happens to us all sometimes. You don’t have to be perfect to be a good digital citizen. See our site for resources on responsible sharing practices. ScienceUpFirst.com #ScienceUpFirst
051
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
Monday was international overdose awareness day and we wanted to give you some good information on the topic. Harm reduction can save lives, so it’s important to know the facts. For the full post and sources go to tinyurl.com/SUFDrugToxicityCrisis 1/2 🧵
140
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
Are you pregnant and wondering if sex could harm the baby or trigger labour? You’re wondering if all types of sex are safe or if changes in your libido are normal? 👀 These are all valid (and very sexy) questions. Let’s get into the evidence-based answers 👇 scienceupfirst.com/sexual-healt... 1/2 🧵
121
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
Fact-checkers use lateral reading because it is faster, more efficient, and less biased than vertical reading. It’s called the SIFT method. 🔍 scienceupfirst.com/misinformati... Questions about the SIFT method? Ask us in the comments! #ScienceUpFirst
173
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) isn’t a myth. The myth is that irritability, anxiety, fatigue, headaches, or mood swings experienced by millions of people with periods are “just in their heads.” PMS is real. These aren’t excuses – they’re symptoms. scienceupfirst.com/womens-healt... #ScienceUpFirst
A person visibly uncomfortable is holding their stomach. A text in the foreground reads: “It's all in your head. Some people still say this about Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). But PMS is very real - and impacts around 3 in 4 people with periods. Irritability, anxiety, mood swings, fatigue, headaches, bloating, changes in appetite...These aren't excuses. They're symptoms.”
031
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 31/08/2026
The world lost @DollyParton and things are a little less magical. We wanted to share a few of her best moments with some best practices to make the internet a kinder place. Our thoughts are with everyone feeling this loss. 👇 scienceupfirst.com/mental-healt... #ScienceUpFirst
000
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
To celebrate International Dog Day (yesterday), we asked some of our team's dogs for their sagest advice... and these are some wise pups! 🐶 #ScienceUpFirst
000
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Your pelvic floor does a LOT during pregnancy and birth. The relationship between birth, pelvic floor health, incontinence and sex is more complicated than you might think. Here’s what the evidence says.👇 scienceupfirst.com/sexual-healt... In collaboration with @pwhrcanada.bsky.social
121
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
What’s kinda chic to you? Visit our website for more tips on how to stay well-informed while doom scrolling: scienceupfirst.com #ScienceUpFirst #TogetherAgainstMisinformation
141
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Funny how some people demand years of evidence before trusting vaccines, but are happy to recommend unapproved peptides based mostly on animal studies. Learn why buying unapproved peptides online is not a good idea 👇 scienceupfirst.com/nutrition/pe... #ScienceUpFirst
020
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
English, French (and so many other languages) are part of Canada’s culture. Offrir l’ensemble de notre contenu en français et en anglais a toujours été une priorité. For French give us a follow at @lasciencedabord. ScienceUpFirst.com #ScienceUpFirst #LaSciencedAbord
051
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
People who identify as members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities can come up against a lot of barriers for good mental health. Learn more! 👇 scienceupfirst.com/2slgbtqia/me... Made in collaboration with @camhnews.bsky.social #ScienceUpFirst
On a colourful background are enumerated the different meanings of the abbreviation 2SLGBTQIA+
010
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
UVA, UVB, broad-spectrum… Buying sunscreen can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Want to learn more about the best way to protect yourself in the sun? Scroll through our profile, or search “sunscreen” on ScienceUpFirst.com scienceupfirst.com/seasonal/do-... #ScienceUpFirst
An infographic titled 'Do you know the difference between UVA, UVB, and UVC?' explains the effects of different UV rays on the skin. It describes how UVA penetrates deeply and leads to aging and cancer, UVB affects the skin's outer layer causing sunburn and cancer, and UVC remains in the atmosphere. A reminder suggests using broad-spectrum sunscreen for protection, with a person holding sunscreen in the bottom right corner.
092
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
Children and teens who experience even one blistering sunburn have twice the risk of developing melanoma. The good news is that using sunscreen everyday can reduce the risk of skin cancer by half. 👇 scienceupfirst.com/seasonal/thi... #ScienceUpFirst
A person is holding a hand to their neck that is badly sun burnt. A text reads: "Think one bad sunburn isn't a big deal? Just one bad sunburn in childhood can double the risk of skin cancer later in life. Sun protection today. Fewer risks tomorrow."
031
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 05/08/2026
It’s human to have a bias towards nature, whether the reason is concern for our health or concern for the environment. That’s the appeal to nature fallacy. You can read more about it in today’s comic post👇 scienceupfirst.com/misinformati... #ScienceUpFirst
A stick figure is holding a bottle of hand cream and says to another: “Check out this new hand cream. It makes your skin soft as a feather.” The other one answers: “OMG STAWP!” Above them the title reads: Appeal to Nature.”
030
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
We’re officially in Pride season 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️. Whether you are a new ally or simply trying to be a better one, this post is for you 👇 scienceupfirst.com/2slgbtqia/ho... #ScienceUpFirst
A heart and 2 bands in the colours of the pride flag are shown. The text reads: “How to be a good ally.”
041
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 03/08/2026
Electrolytes are essential for your body, but that doesn't mean most people need electrolyte drinks. Swipe through to learn when they can help, when water is enough, and how to naturally replace electrolytes. 👇 scienceupfirst.com/nutrition/ar... #ScienceUpFirst
A person is drinking water. Above them is a text that reads: “Electrolytes. Are electrolytes and sport drinks really better than water? Not usually.”
051
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 29/07/2026
Have you ever looked for alternatives to liquid sunscreen? There’s a problem with sunscreen sticks, powder, pumps and aerosol sprays… 👇 scienceupfirst.com/seasonal/sun... #ScienceUpFirst
Sand is shown in the background with the shadow of a hand holding a rectangular bottle. A multicolored text over it reads: “Sun Protection: It's not the size that counts… it's the quantity! Sprays. Sticks. Powders. If you don't apply enough, you don't get the SPF indicated on the packaging.”
010
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 28/07/2026
Smoke crosses borders… and so do the impacts of climate policy and climate change. 👇 scienceupfirst.com/climate/clim... #ScienceUpFirst
A forest is burning in the background with the border of a fire advancing. A text underneath reads: “Climate change has no borders.”
013
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 27/07/2026
Did you know suicide rates in Canada tend to peak during the summer months? 💛 Check in on your loved ones, even on the brightest days.👇 scienceupfirst.com/mental-healt... #ScienceUpFirst
Glasses are laying on some sand. In the background there is a blue sky with seagulls and a sun. The text reads: “We often think sunny days bring brighter moods. But that’s not always the case. Mental health matters in every season.”
162
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 23/07/2026
This myth is recirculating but the facts remain the same: COVID-19 vaccines DO NOT cause cancer. Headlines can be misleading, read carefully. More details here 👇 scienceupfirst.com/vaccines/cov... #ScienceUpFirst
Image description: A photo of a stethoscope in the lower right half of the slide. Text in slide: "No, COVID-19 vaccines do not increase cancer risk. This myth is recirculating, let's clear things up." #ScienceUpFirst
041
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 21/07/2026
Climate change is driving the wildfires we're seeing: more frequent, more intense, more destructive. That part's settled science. 1/2 🧵 More details👇 scienceupfirst.com/climate/rapi...
150
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 20/07/2026
Here's why makeup with SPF isn't the same as tinted sunscreen. 👇 scienceupfirst.com/lifestyle-be... #ScienceUpFirst
A pink background with flowers. In the foreground is a glass container with foundation in it. A text around it reads: “Your foundation says SPF 30 but are you actually getting that? Probably not (sorry!). Read the caption to find out why.”
040
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 16/07/2026
Climate change is caused by humans. Simple. Proven. And yet more and more Canadians are starting to believe it's equally caused by natural changes. That's not accurate, and it didn't happen by accident. 👇 scienceupfirst.com/climate/clim... #ScienceUpFirst
A black background. A text in the centre reads: “Climate change is caused by burning fossil fuel.”
03216
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 16/07/2026
Supplement companies don’t have to lie to sell you a product that doesn’t work… they can just promise to ‘support’, ‘optimize’, or ‘boost’’ something – language that is vague enough to avoid breaking regulations. Before buying – verify the facts. 🔍 scienceupfirst.com/nutrition/yo...
A yellow supplement pill appears in the centre of the slide. The text around it reads: “YOU HAVE TO TRY
THIS NEW SUPPLEMENT. It preserves your cognitive function, and boosts your immune system, and slows your aging, and gives you energy, and gives you beautiful skin, nails, and hair, and strengthens your bones, and lowers stress, and… Sound familiar?
What’s up with all the ‘miracle’ supplements with little to no scientific backing, and why are companies allowed to sell misleading products?”
0216
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 15/07/2026
Fibroids can affect people very differently. Some never have symptoms, while others experience heavy bleeding, pain, or fertility challenges. Check out our latest post to learn more about the symptoms, common myths, and treatment options.👇 scienceupfirst.com/womens-healt... 1/2 🧵
A purple background with a pink circle in the middle. A text reads: "Did you know? 79-80% of women and gender-diverse people with a uterus will develop fibroids during their lifetime. Swipe to learn the signs, symptoms, and torment options."
110
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
Do you know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke? In this warm weather it’s a good idea to know what to do if someone is affected. See our post for how to combat these heat induced illnesses and how to avoid them altogether. 👇 scienceupfirst.com/seasonal/kno... #ScienceUpFirst
Infographic comparing the signs of heat exhaustion (fatigue, cramps, sweating, nausea) and those of heat stroke (temperature >39.5°C, confusion, loss of consciousness, red and dry skin). Colors: orange for heat exhaustion, red for heat stroke. #ScienceUpFirst
031
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 03/07/2026
Ever notice how some hot days feel way more intense than others, even though it’s the exact same temperature? Learn more about humidex and how it can become dangerous 👇 scienceupfirst.com/science-101/... #ScienceUpFirst
A heat index chart titled “‘It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity’… Actually, it’s both!” showing how relative humidity and air temperature combine to create perceived heat. The table has relative humidity percentages (40%–100%) on the left and air temperature (28°C–42°C) across the top. Each cell shows the “feels like” temperature in °C, colour-coded: yellow for Caution, light orange for Extreme Caution, orange for Danger, and red for Extreme Danger. A note says "Don't forget: these numbers are for shady spots. Full sun? Add up to 8°C more." The hashtag #ScienceUpFirst is in the top right.
041
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 02/07/2026
“If the government recommends healthier food choices, soon they'll decide what everyone is allowed to eat, soon cakes and pies will be illegal.” Sound extreme? Claiming that a relatively minor thing will inevitably lead to disaster is a slippery slope. Read more👇 scienceupfirst.com/misinformati...
Two stick figures are talking. One says “Fossil fuels are non-renewable so we should develop wind and solar energy.” The other one standing right next to a muddy and slippery looking slope answers “If we develop renewable energy, we'll shut down all oil and gas production…”
040
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
Does cannabis really improve your mood? NO. In fact studies show it may worsen existing mental health conditions. To read more about cannabis and your mood see today’s post.👇 scienceupfirst.com/lifestyle-be... This post was made in collaboration with @camhnews.bsky.social
On a yellow and purple background with different shapes, a text reads: “Have you ever heard: ‘I smoke weed because it helps with my mood’ and wondered ‘Could it help me too?’ Here is what the science says
about Cannabis and your mood.”
000
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
Pick an emoji and keep scrolling to discover your internet tip of the day! Want to learn more? Check out our website ScienceUpFirst.com for more mythbusting resources! 🔍💡 #ScienceUpFirst #LaSciencedAbord #TogetherAgainstMisinformation
100
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 25/06/2026
Tragic events can lead to intense emotions. Your mental health matters. Log off when you need a break, take good care, and check in on the people around you. Resources in our stories and here too 👇 tinyurl.com/SUFMentalHealthResources
020
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
Undetectable = Untransmittable Not “almost never”. Not “with a small risk”. Zero transmission of HIV. Read more: scienceupfirst.com/sexual-healt... Sources : tinyurl.com/SUFUequalU This has been a collaboration between @scienceupfirst.bsky.social and @pwhrcanada.bsky.social #ScienceUpFirst
042
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 23/06/2026
If a river is out of bounds for swimming it’s probably for a good reason and you shouldn’t jump in, even if it’s really hot outside. There is a risk of coming in contact with pathogens! Let’s clear things up 👇 scienceupfirst.com/public-healt... #ScienceUpFirst
010
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 18/06/2026
Harm reduction is often misunderstood. Read more on how it may reduce the harms associated with the unregulated drug supply, focusing on ‘meeting people where they are at’ here👇 scienceupfirst.com/public-healt... Everyone deserves care and safety, no matter what their life circumstances are.
041
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 18/06/2026
Does your makeup contain endocrine disruptors? Maybe. Are they bad for you? Watch our video to find out. For more info on endocrine disruptors and you, see our full article. 👇 tinyurl.com/SUFCosmeticsEndocrineFull #ScienceUpFirst
040
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 17/06/2026
Ebola is back in the headlines. The outbreak is serious and requires a coordinated international response. However, the risk of Ebola for people living in Canada remains very low. Click to learn more 👇 scienceupfirst.com/public-healt... #ScienceUpFirst
A pastel pink background. The text reads: “Talking about Ebola in 2026. What is Ebola? How does Ebola spread? 2026 Ebola outbreak. Why are experts concerned? Do travel bans work? What can be done? Takeaway.” #ScienceUpFirst
020
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 11/06/2026
GMOs tend to get a bad reputation but they are not simply “good” or “bad.” Understanding how they are made, used, and regulated helps put many of these concerns into context. 👇 scienceupfirst.com/nutrition/wh... What’s your take on GMOs? #ScienceUpFirst
Text is overlaid on a background of different shades of green and blue. There is a yellow butterfly on a blade of grass in the upper left corner. The text reads: “What are
GMOs? A definition. GMO
(Genetically Modified Organism). They describe plants, animals or even microorganisms who had their genetic material, a.k.a their DNA, intentionally modified either naturally or artificially. A lot of people think GMOs are rotten, but let's dig deeper.” A shovel in the bottom right corner points towards the next slide.
1153
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
Although bracelets, stickers or patches may look attractive, they offer minimal, if any, protection against mosquito bites or ticks. We explain it all to you here 👇 www.scienceupfirst.com/project/are-... #ScienceUpFirst
The background is a picture of grass with a hand covered in bugs holding a thumbs up while wearing an insect repelling patch. The text above reads: “Ticks and mosquitoes don't care about your wristband
(or patches, or stickers). Those have little to no evidence behind them. Don't get bitten by bad advice!” #ScienceUpFirst
020
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 09/06/2026
Brains love conspiracy theories. While some people may be more prone to conspiratorial thinking, everyone is susceptible. Check out the rest of the post to learn more about why our brains are hardwired for conspiracy, and how you can help reason win out.👇 scienceupfirst.com/misinformati...
A man wearing a tin foil hat is looking at a small globe of earth through a magnifying glass. The text in the centre reads: “No one is immune to conspiracy theories, not even
You! So, if our brains are built for conspiratorial thinking… Can we avoid it?”
021
ScienceUpFirst @scienceupfirst.bsky.social · 04/06/2026
Emergency contraception myths, busted 👀 No, it does not affect future fertility. No, Plan B is not the only option. And no, it does not only work the “morning after.” Learn more in our latest post 👇 scienceupfirst.com/sexual-healt... This post was made in collaboration with #PWHRCanada
A pink background with what looks like pills is shown. At the foreground is an IUD device and a contraceptive pill. Above it, the text reads: "Emergency contraception. Myths busted." #ScienceUpFirst
0179