Empowering Yourself: How to Find Reliable Health Information as a Health-Literate Individual
As we live in the age of information, we’re exposed to a plethora of health information on the internet and social media platforms. However, not all the information we find online is reliable or trustworthy. Therefore, it’s imperative that we learn how to find legitimate sources of credible health information. In this article, we’ll delve into some expert tips on how to empower yourself to discover reliable health information as a health-literate individual.
What is Health Literacy?
Before we delve into the tips, let’s first define health literacy. The World Health Organization defines health literacy as the “the cognitive and social skills which determine the motivation and ability of individuals to gain access to, understand and use information in ways which promote and maintain good health.” In simpler terms, health literacy means the ability to understand and use information to make informed decisions about your health.
Tip 1: Check the Source of the Information
One of the primary ways to ensure the information you’re reading is trustworthy is to check the source of the information. Check the author’s credentials, institutional affiliations, and financers to ensure they are reputable and trustworthy. Websites with extensions, such as .gov, .edu or .org, are typically more reliable than .com websites. However, this is not always the case, so make sure to check the author’s credentials regardless of the website.
Tip 2: Evaluate the Information for Validity and Reliability
If you find yourself reading an article or hearing a statement about a health topic that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Evaluate the information for validity and reliability by asking yourself questions such as:
– What are the sources of the information?
– Is the information biased?
– Is the information referenced?
– Does the website use emotional appeals to get your attention?
If the information seems biased, not referenced or making emotional appeals, it’s best to avoid or question it.
Tip 3: Look for Evidence-Based Information
Another excellent way to ensure the information is reliable is to look for evidence-based information. Evidence-based information is derived from scientific studies and research. Websites such as PubMed.gov provide access to thousands of peer-reviewed articles that are a great source of evidence-based information. However, as research is continually evolving, it is essential to ensure that the articles you are reading are of recent studies and provide up-to-date information.
Tip 4: Check for Consistency
Reliable health information should be consistent across multiple reputable sources. If you’re reading an article that contradicts the information in several other sources, it’s best to question the truth of the information. Trustworthy information should be consistent from one source to another.
Tip 5: Consult with Healthcare Professionals
When in doubt about a piece of information you have read, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional. Medical professionals are trained to decipher health information and help you make informed decisions about your health. Additionally, a professional can help you interpret confusing medical jargon and help you understand complex issues.
Conclusion
In summary, finding reliable health information is crucial for making informed decisions about your health. Checking the source of the information, evaluating the information for validity and reliability, looking for evidence-based information, checking for consistency, and consulting with healthcare professionals are all excellent ways to empower yourself with reliable health information. Remember, in this age of information, having health literacy is crucial to achieving good health.
