" How do you know if a health information source is reliable? "

Recent surveys and analyses suggest that our society is vulnerable to absorbing misinformation, including health misinformation, particularly through social media dissemination. In this context, how can we tell if we can trust a source of health information, and what can we do to protect ourselves against inaccurate health advice? Medical News Today investigates.

In today’s world, information travels fast, aided by mass media and social media dissemination. This means that health advice is at our fingertips but it can also mean that we may imbibe inaccurate health information if we are not careful.

We could thus very easily come across health misinformation — information that has been misreported, misinterpreted, or is otherwise inaccurate.

According to a consumer survey conducted by Healthline in 2024, among respondents in the United States, more than half reported they gathered health information via social media, and 32% said they relied on family, friends, and colleagues for health advice.

Yet, despite admitting to relying heavily on social media for information, respondents also overwhelmingly indicated that they did not fully trust the accuracy of these sources.

More Information at:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-do-you-know-if-a-health-information-source-is-reliable

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