Healthy Living

Health information is abundant and literally at your fingertips on the internet.

But is it reliable?

Following bad health advice can have disastrous results. Anybody can establish a “health” website.

So who do you trust? How can you distinguish between good and bad information? You want current, unbiased information based on research. Be skeptical.

Here are several questions to ask when evaluating web site health information.

Who runs the site? Is it a university (.edu) or the government (.gov)? Is it a health organization (.org) or a business that wants to sell you something (.com)?

Is the information written by experts? Check the “About Us” link — it should list the credentials of the professionals and experts writing the advice.

Is the information reviewed by experts? Is there an editorial board?

This info would also be found in the “About Us” section.

Is there a way to contact the writers of the health information? Is there a phone number, email, street address?

Are there unbelievable claims or testimonials? If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Are there privacy policies? Do they ask for personal information? Will this information be shared? Are you comfortable with that?

Are there references on research studies reported? Do they identify sources of information?

Is the information current and up to date?

Internet health information is not a substitute for your own personal health care provider’s advice. Before following any advice from the internet, discuss it first with your personal physician or healthcare professional.

Alice Facente is a registered nurse and clinical educator with the The William W. Backus Hospital Education Department. This column should not replace advice or instruction from your personal physician. If you want to comment on this column or others, visit the Healthy Living blog at www.backushospital.org/backus-blogs or e-mail Ms. Facente or any of the Healthy Living columnists at healthyliving@wwbh.org