Navigating Online Health Information

Authors: Anupama Jithesh, Dr. Sohaila Cheema, Dr. Karima Chaabna

In today’s digital world, a wealth of online information is available that influences the health decisions people make daily. However, it can be challenging to distinguish between reliable information and false or misleading content.

Misinformation and Disinformation

Misinformation refers to inaccurate or misleading information that contradicts scientific evidence. Disinformation, on the other hand, is information or health claims created intentionally to cause harm or financial gain. Both types of false information threaten individual and public health by undermining trust in healthcare institutions, deterring people from seeking appropriate medical care, whether for prevention, diagnosis, or treatment, and causing people to make health decisions that may have harmful consequences.

Identifying Reliable Health Information

To ensure you are accessing accurate and trustworthy health information online, follow these key steps:

1. Verify the source: Understand the purpose of the website. Determine whether the main purpose of the site is to inform and explain or sell a product or Familiarizing yourself with different website domains can also help assess the reliability and ownership of the site. Domains ending with “.gov” are strictly controlled and used by governmental agencies, and government health websites typically provide carefully reviewed, evidence-based information. However, do not judge a website’s credibility based solely on its domain. Many trustworthy sources use “.org” domains, and while commercial websites ending with “.com” or “.net” may not be inherently unreliable, it is crucial to consider who owns the website.
2. Verify contributor/author credentials: Always check who has authored or contributed to the information. Distinguish between articles written by experts with medical or scientific credentials and blog posts based on personal experiences. If the material is not written by an expert, check if it has been reviewed by a qualified healthcare professional.
3. Assess credibility: Health articles written by experts should be based on scientific evidence and typically cite sources at the end. However, if the health information is based on anecdotal evidence and personal testimonials, the credibility of the information may vary. Be cautious of websites that promise cures, sell unproven treatments, or offer easy and quick solutions to health problems. It is also good practice to confirm online health information with your healthcare.
4. Check dates: Health information can change rapidly as new research and evidence emerge. Therefore, it is important to check when the information was published and whether it has been revised or updated to ensure that you have the latest information.
5. Influence of personal beliefs and biases: People can be influenced by misinformation that aligns with their beliefs and ideologies. Keep an open mind and choose health information that is balanced and evidence-based.
6. Beware of social media loops: Social media algorithms often present results based on what a user has previously viewed. This creates a loop of sources with similar viewpoints. To combat this, seek information from a variety of reputable sources.

Takeaway Message

Improving the quality of health information we consume benefits everyone. Before sharing health information, verify its source and credibility. By reducing misinformation, we can make better-informed decisions for ourselves, our families, and our communities. Let’s all work towards creating a healthier information environment.

Sources: Harvard T.H.Chan School of Public Health | U.S. Department of Health and Human Services | National Institute on Aging | Queens University of Charlotte

Edited by: Julietta Mirghani