Is the website trustworthy?

Ask yourself:

• Does the website end in .gov or .edu?

• Is it from a respected hospital or medical organization?

• Is the information reviewed by healthcare professionals?

Is the website trying to sell something?

Be careful if an article spends more time promoting a product than explaining the science.

Some websites exaggerate health claims to encourage people to buy supplements, vitamins, or expensive treatments.

7.Should You Believe Health Advice on Social Media?

Health information on Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, or other social media platforms is not always reviewed by medical professionals.

Some creators provide accurate information.

Others may:

• Misunderstand medical research.

• Share personal opinions as facts.

• Promote products they are paid to advertise.

• Spread misinformation unintentionally.

Before following medical advice from social media:

✔ Verify it using trusted medical websites.

✔ Discuss important health decisions with your healthcare provider.

8.Understanding Scientific Evidence

Not every health claim is supported by strong evidence.

Reliable medical recommendations are usually based on:

• Many scientific studies.

• Clinical research involving many participants.

• Reviews by medical experts.

• Evidence that has been tested repeatedly.

One person's personal story is not the same as scientific proof.

9.When Should You Consult a Doctor Instead of the Internet?

The internet is useful for learning, but it should never replace professional medical care.

Contact your doctor if:

• You have new or worsening symptoms.

• You think you may have a serious illness.

• You want to stop taking prescribed medication.

• You are considering a new treatment or supplement.

• You are unsure whether online information applies to your situation.

Your healthcare provider understands your personal medical history and can provide advice that is specific to you.

10.Tips for Safe Online Health Searches

✔ Start with trusted websites.

✔ Compare information from more than one reliable source.

✔ Look for scientific evidence.

✔ Check when the information was published.

✔ Be cautious of miracle cures and "secret treatments."

✔ Never stop taking medication without talking to your healthcare provider.

✔ If you are unsure, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional.

Practice Activity

Imagine you see this headline online:

"Scientists Discover a Fruit That Cures Arthritis in Three Days!"

Before believing or sharing it, ask yourself:

• Who wrote this article?

• Is it from a trusted medical organization?

• Does it cite scientific research?

• Can you find the same information on the CDC, NIH, or Mayo Clinic website?

• Is the article trying to sell a supplement or product?

If you cannot answer these questions confidently, do more research before believing the claim.

Remember

The internet is an excellent place to learn about health, but it should not replace medical advice from qualified healthcare professionals.

When it comes to your health:

• Verify information using trusted medical sources.

• Be cautious of sensational claims and miracle cures.

• Compare information from multiple reliable organizations.

• Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before making important health decisions.

Taking a few extra minutes to verify health information can help you make safer, more informed choices and protect both your health and your finances.

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