How to Identify Reliable Health Information Sources
In today's fast-paced world, where information spreads quickly through mass media and social networks, health advice is constantly within reach. However, this also means that inaccurate or misleading health information can easily spread, and it's essential to learn how to distinguish trustworthy sources from unreliable ones.
Recent surveys reveal that many people get health advice through social media. A 2024 survey by Healthline found that over half of respondents in the U.S. rely on social platforms for health information. Yet, despite the prevalence of social media as a health resource, many expressed doubt about its accuracy.
In the U.K., a study by The Alan Turing Institute also found that nearly 94% of people have seen health misinformation online. So, how can we know if the health information we encounter is credible? Medical News Today sought insights from Dawn Holford, Ph.D., a research fellow at the University of Bristol, to provide guidance.
Why Do We Fall for Misinformation?
Holford explained that our tendency to fall for health misinformation often stems from underlying psychological factors known as "attitude roots," a term coined by psychologist Matthew Hornsey. These roots include long-held beliefs, emotions, and worldviews that influence how we process new information. For example, anxiety about medical procedures or fear of vaccines may lead us to embrace misleading information that reinforces these fears.
The brain’s tendency to favor information that confirms our pre-existing beliefs, also known as confirmation bias, makes it even harder to break free from misinformation. These roots themselves aren’t inherently good or bad—they simply reflect how our life experiences shape our understanding of the world. It’s how these beliefs interact with the information around us that can lead to the acceptance of inaccurate advice.
Who Is Most Vulnerable to Misinformation?
People are more likely to trust inaccurate health information if it aligns with their existing beliefs, but certain psychological traits can make us more or less susceptible. For instance, individuals who are open to considering new perspectives, known as "actively open-minded thinking," tend to be less susceptible to misinformation.
Why Might Official Health Sources Be Distrusted?
Despite the reliability of many governmental health organizations, some individuals may feel distrustful due to negative past experiences with the healthcare system. For example, individuals who have faced racism or discrimination in healthcare may be more inclined to believe disinformation narratives, such as claims about vaccines being part of a malicious agenda. In these cases, past experiences with healthcare institutions play a significant role in shaping one’s attitude toward health information.
Where to Find Accurate Health Information
Given that many people lose trust in governmental health bodies, it’s crucial to know where to turn for reliable health advice. Holford emphasized that trust is fundamental when evaluating health information. Governments are often among the most reliable sources, as they are held accountable and typically use clear, accessible language. They also have the necessary expertise to verify health claims and ensure accuracy.
However, in cases where local governmental sources are not trusted, it’s beneficial to look beyond national borders and consult global organizations with a solid reputation for accuracy and reliability.
[REFERENCE] MedicalNewsToday