Trusted Health Information Sources: A Starter Hub
Health misinformation spreads quickly. This hub lists reliable, non-commercial sources of health information from international and national public health bodies and evidence reviewers.
When you search a health question, results range from excellent to dangerous. Start with sources run by public health bodies and independent evidence reviewers, which have no product to sell.
International
- World Health Organization publishes global guidelines and fact sheets on diseases, nutrition, physical activity and more.
- Cochrane produces systematic reviews that summarise the research on treatments, with plain-language summaries.
National health services and agencies
- NHS website (UK) offers clear guidance on conditions, symptoms, treatments and healthy living.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) covers disease prevention, vaccination, travel health and healthy habits.
- MedlinePlus from the U.S. National Library of Medicine explains conditions, medicines and tests in plain language.
How to judge a health claim
- Who wrote it, and are they qualified? Is there an author and review date?
- Is it selling something? Treat product-linked claims with extra caution.
- Does it cite research, and does the research say what is claimed?
- Does it promise quick, dramatic results or a "secret" cure? That is a warning sign.
Guides on FlexyBlogs
Online information can help you prepare for an appointment, but it does not replace advice from a qualified professional who knows your history.
Cover photo by Online Marketing on Unsplash.
