Evaluating Health Information:

A Guide for Teens

 

Books, magazines and the Internet are three major sources of information about health, but just because the information is published doesn't mean that it's reliable. This guide is designed to help you examine health information so you can decide whether the information is reliable or not.

 

1. Question the source of the information - Here are some questions to help you decide if the information is biased:

• Who created the information? Are they trying to promote a product or idea? Is there advertising presented along with the information?
• Is a variety of information presented, or just one point of view?
• Is the information from a medical or health-related organization? If not, what is the author or organization's reason for publishing health information?

2. Information seems unbiased but is it reliable? - Other things to consider:

• Is it easy to find out who created the information? The author and/or organization should be clearly identified, and contact information should be available. The site should be professionally managed and reviewed by experts in the field.
• Is the information clearly organized?
• Is the information up-to date? Look for a date of publication. Health information and treatments change all the time, so old information may no longer be accurate.
• Who is the information created for? Information should be age appropriate and should have a reading level appropriate for teens.
• Does the site have sponsors? All sponsorship, advertising, or commercial interests should be clearly stated.

3. Use common sense - If the information appears unprofessional or sketchy, it probably is.

 

4. Check links and more links - Not only do you want to be sure that the links work, it is very important to know where the links go to. Some sites provide a direct connection with sites that link to inappropriate sites. It is a good idea to check some links, and check their links too!

 

5. Don't be fooled by web sites claims - Be alert to web sites that credit themselves as the only source of the information or discredits other sources of information.

 

6. Check out websites before recommending them to friends - It's important to check out a website before telling a friend. It’s good to know if the advice you are giving is reliable. Information published by medical societies, health care organizations, or nonprofit organizations are usually good sources of information.

 

 

Written by the CYWH and YMH Staff

 

Updated 2/5/2008

 

Related Information:

• Choosing a Doctor
• Healthy Eating
• Puberty & Your Growing Body
• Tips for Staying Healthy
• Related Links
  

 

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