Many people turn to “Dr. Google” when experiencing a symptom. With the overwhelming amount of online advice, it can be challenging to know what’s reliable. Learn how to discern misinformation from reputable advice with these tips.
The Risks of Using the Internet for Medical Advice
Medical misinformation can appear anywhere, anytime — on social media platforms, websites, forums and even face-to-face conversations. It’s most prevalent on Twitter, now X, on issues related to drugs, smoking, vaccines and non-communicable diseases. Relying on health advice posted online is risky because of:
- Unverified influencers: Anyone can post and easily claim they’re trusted doctors or experts.
- Dubious webpages: Some websites offer products or advice that are too good to be true.
- Nonspecific guidance: While online medical information can be helpful, it isn’t tailored to your specific situation and concerns.
Tips for a Safer Online Search
Over 70% of Americans are exposed to health-related misinformation online, and knowing how to combat and evaluate fake news is vital. Here’s how to do it:
Do: Choose Reputable Websites
The National Institutes of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites are good places to start when searching for credible health information. Keep an eye on the authors, too — are they experts in the field? If an expert didn’t write the online material, has the information been reviewed by a credentialed specialist?
Don’t: Trust Unverified Sources
Be cautious about information from social media, especially from people who may sound authoritative, especially if they lack expertise and credentials.
Remain skeptical about donation drives, too. In 2016, a woman who falsely claimed to have cancer was arrested for collecting money from generous donors. These scams cost you money and divert necessary donations from legitimate causes.
Do: Follow Credentialed Health Care Influencers
Many licensed medical professionals use social media to educate their followers, spread awareness and combat misinformation. For instance, Dr. Austin Chiang is a content creator featured in credible publications like Men’s Health and BBC News. Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN’s chief medical correspondent, is also a trusted source for significant health stories in the U.S.
Don’t: Trust Personal Stories
Comments from others may be comforting, but not all experience symptoms and health conditions the same way. Only licensed physicians can assess and interpret your symptoms.
Do: Look for Up-to-Date Information
Outdated advice may prompt old-fashioned practices and technologies. Search for quality resources and regularly review them to check for updates so you know you’re getting current information.
Don’t: Fall for Clickbait Headlines
Watch out for exaggerated headlines. Clickbait content will often use sensationalized language typed in all capital letters. It usually promises life-changing transformations that are too good to be true. For instance, there’s an online promotion of a shower pan liner as a dance studio floor. What the public doesn’t know is that this product turns carcinogenic when exposed to air, thereby compromising people’s health.
Do: Consult Your Physician
When in doubt, avoid searching your symptoms online. Google doesn’t know your medical history, so consult a doctor for proper care and advice.
Don’t: Self-Diagnose
Self-diagnosis can be dangerous as it can exacerbate feelings of anxiety. When scrolling online, it’s easy to be convinced by the worst-case scenario, which generally isn’t accurate.
Use the Internet Responsibly
Medical advice found online can be both beneficial and harmful. Being a discerning reader helps you stay safe against fake news and make informed decisions about your health.
