Safe Internet surfing
A crisis is likely to lead today's health consumer to the Internet for quick answers to medical questions.
Yet, it's also the best time to surf with a healthy dose
of skepticism, according to Roslyn Donald, reference librarian at the San Mateo Public Library.
"When you or someone you care about is sick, you're probably stressed out and busy - that's the time to be even more careful," she said.
The number one rule of thumb: consider the source. "Even if the site uses words like 'institute' or 'association,' you have to check it out," she says.
"Do they provide telephone numbers? Can you look up the organization in a directory of associations? Do other sites link to this one?"
While there are plenty of sites sponsored by credible health organizations, there also are lots of half truths and anecdotal information on the web, she said.
"Claims of a miracle cure in Mexico might have a grain of truth, but the benefits are usually blown out of proportion with no credible scientific evidence."
Donald offers the following tips for smart surfing:
doctor or librarian.
at the library.
Linda Lubovich of the San Mateo Public Library will present more tips and web sites at "Sifting
Through Online Health Information," May 14 (Wed), 10 - 11:30 a.m. at the Wellness Center. Admission is $5. Call 696 5600.