10 tips for evaluating health information online

With so many websites, blogs, and forums online, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by conflicting advice and questionable sources. In this blog, we give our top 10 tips for evaluating health information online to help you make informed decisions about your health and wellbeing.

1. Check the source’s credibility

The first step in evaluating health information is to look at the source. Ask yourself:

• Who is providing the information? Reliable sources typically include well-known health organisations, government health agencies, and respected medical institutions. In Australia, this includes the Department of Health and Aged Care, Healthdirect, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
• Is the source reputable? Look for websites that are affiliated with professional associations or academic institutions. Websites like the Mayo Clinic and the World Health Organisation (WHO) are great examples.

If the source is a personal blog or an unknown website, be cautious. Check for author credentials and see if they have relevant qualifications or experience in the field of health.

2. Look for evidence-based information

Reliable health information should be based on scientific evidence and research. Here’s what to look for:

• Citations and references: Trustworthy articles will reference studies, clinical trials, and other scientific research. These citations should come from peer-reviewed journals or reputable research organisations.
• Updated information: Health guidelines and research can change, so it’s important to check the date of the information. Make sure the content is current and reflects the latest research and recommendations.

Avoid sources that rely heavily on anecdotal evidence or personal opinions without backing them up with credible research.

3. Evaluate the author’s qualifications

The author’s background can significantly impact the reliability of the information. Check:

• Credentials: Does the author have relevant degrees, certifications, or professional experience? For example, a healthcare provider with a medical degree or a registered dietitian has more credibility than a general blogger.
• Expertise: Does the author specialise in the topic they’re writing about? For instance, a cardiologist will have more authoritative information on heart health than a general health writer.

4. Beware of bias and conflicts of interest

It’s important to identify any potential biases or conflicts of interest that may influence the information:

• Advertisements and sponsorships: Be wary of content that is heavily sponsored or has numerous ads promoting specific products or services. This could indicate a conflict of interest.
• Author’s affiliations: Check if the author is affiliated with organisations or companies that might influence their perspective. For example, a nutritionist working for a supplement company might present biased information to promote their products.

5. Cross-check information

Don’t rely on a single source for health information. Cross-check the details with other reputable sources to ensure accuracy. If multiple reliable sources agree on the same information, it’s more likely to be trustworthy.

6. Assess the website’s design and usability

A professional, well-designed website often indicates a reliable source. Look for:

• Clear contact information: Reliable websites typically provide clear contact details, including physical addresses and phone numbers.
• Professional appearance: A well-maintained website with a clean design, free from excessive pop-ups and ads, is often a good sign.

Websites that are cluttered, have broken links, or are filled with aggressive advertisements might not be trustworthy.

7. Consider the purpose of the information

Think about the intent behind the information you’re reading:

• Informative vs promotional: Is the content meant to educate or to sell something? Educational content is usually more reliable than content designed to promote a product or service.
• Objective vs subjective: Objective information presents facts and evidence, while subjective content might include personal opinions or experiences. Both can be valuable, but they should be evaluated differently.

8. Check for reviews and feedback

If you’re unsure about a source, look for reviews or feedback from other users. Online forums, review sites, or social media can provide insights into the credibility of the information and the reputation of the source.

9. Seek professional advice

When in doubt, consult a healthcare professional. While online information can be a valuable starting point, a doctor or specialist can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs.

10. Stay sceptical and informed

Finally, always approach online health information with a healthy dose of scepticism. Question the validity of the information, and don’t be afraid to dig deeper or seek out additional sources.