Health Information: Stop and Pay Attention

When you see health information, don’t assume that it’s true. 

Smiley image from Pixabay

Pay attention to your reaction

• If the information inspires strong feelings, you might be tempted to accept or reject it before fact checking

Trust your common sense 

• Does the material describe side effects? A good source includes information about problems that can happen and even things that aren’t yet known about a medication, procedure, or other health topic
• Does the material claim 100% effectiveness or seem like an attempt to persuade you?  An example is: “Our product guarantees weight loss in 30 days! All natural!” 

Be critical of suggestions that could be harmful

• “When my pet fish was sick, I gave it this stuff with chloroquine.  Medical researchers are investigating chloroquine to help people, right?  So maybe it will help me.  I’m a lot bigger than a fish, so taking just a little should be safe.” 

Quick Checks: