A new poll from the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania indicates the American Heart Association is considered the most trusted source of public health information after personal physicians, with 82% of U.S. adults expressing confidence in the organization. The findings, released on March 6, 2026, come at a time when trust in health information faces significant challenges, underscoring the essential role of science-driven associations in supporting informed health decisions.
According to the poll, Americans place highest confidence in their personal healthcare providers, with 86% trusting their own doctor, nurse, or primary health professional for reliable health information. Immediately following personal clinicians, the public expresses strong trust in major professional health and science organizations like the American Heart Association. The Annenberg Public Policy Center poll was conducted Feb. 3 through 17, 2026, among a nationally representative sample of 1,650 adults and has a margin of error of 3.5 points. The American Heart Association was not involved in the poll's design or analysis.
"Public trust in the American Heart Association is earned - one rigorous study, one transparent guideline and one lifesaving action at a time," said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association. "We are grateful that the Annenberg survey reflects continued strong confidence in public health organizations like ours that remained grounded in science." Brown emphasized that trust is never taken for granted and is earned daily by volunteer scientists, clinicians, leaders, professional staff, community volunteers, and donors who uphold the highest standards of evidence and integrity.
The APPC findings highlight the ongoing importance of independent, science-driven organizations in a challenging information environment. For more than a century, the Association has advanced science informing the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cardiovascular disease and stroke, translating evidence into clear, actionable guidance for the public, patients, clinicians, and policymakers. The organization collaborates with many partners to overcome health misinformation and educate Americans to improve heart and brain health for all. Additional details about the poll can be found in the Annenberg Public Policy Center reference Stark Divide: Americans More Confident in Career Scientists at U.S. Health Agencies Than Leaders from March 5, 2026.
This trust measurement matters because it demonstrates where Americans turn for reliable health guidance beyond their immediate healthcare providers. In an era of widespread misinformation, the credibility of established, evidence-based organizations becomes crucial for public health outcomes. The strong confidence in the American Heart Association suggests the public recognizes and values its century-long commitment to scientific rigor and transparent communication. This trust enables the organization to effectively disseminate life-saving information about cardiovascular health, potentially influencing individual behaviors and broader public health policies. The poll results reinforce the critical need for sustained investment in independent scientific organizations that maintain public confidence through consistent, evidence-based practices.
