Internet is a global network of computers turned into a powerful communication tool that allows you to access and transfer information from around the world. A large number of people are looking for answers to many medical issues on the internet, thus making portals with tips on healthy lifestyles and other medical contents increasingly popular. However, it is important to know how to find high-quality and reliable information about health, and not to forget that they can never replace a doctor's visit.

It is believed that currently there are more than 200 million Internet users and the number is constantly growing. This technology came to Croatia in mid-90thies of the last century, and today is gradually becoming an integral part of life and almost an inevitable form of communication and access to new information. According to the research conducted by the GfK agency, whose results were published in ‘’Vecernji list’’ (‘’Evening Paper’’) in July this year, approximately 35% of the population aged over 35 years, and more than 1.2 million people in Croatia in mid-2005, use the Internet at least once a month.

The source of information must be known

Studies conducted in the USA and Europe show that a large number of Internet users seek information about health and ways of its maintenance, thus making this search one of the most popular "on-line" activities. However, having in mind that anyone, regardless of the knowledge, training, expertise or intent, can send information on the Internet, we realize how it can become a dangerous place, especially when it comes to tips about "self-care" and "self-help". The quality of health information on the Internet varies, so it is important to know how to recognize the reliable source and the veracity of its information.

In other words, the Internet is a valuable source of information, but one needs to know how to find quality and reliable sources of information.

Also, it is of utmost importance to remember that the Internet cannot replace a doctor's visit. The information you find can help you protect and improve your health, as well as help you communicate with your doctor or another provider of health care services, but it can never replace professional advice and instructions given by your doctor.

What to check and when to suspect

Asking the following questions when browsing the internet can help you find accurate and reliable information:

• is the source of information reliable?
• is the name of the author of the text or the name of the organization which published the text specified?
• does the site provide all contact information about the author and / or owner of the web site (name, address, telephone number or e-mail)?
• is the author an expert in the particular field?
• if the text is published by an institution / organization, are they recognized as an expert authority in the particular field?
• if the text in the field of medicine is written by an author who has no medical training, is this fact clearly stated?
• if the site is about drugs or other medical products and methods of treatment and prevention of diseases, is any proof listed? Results of professional and scientific studies and research have a completely different meaning than "first-hand experience."

When looking for reliable information on medicinal products, please note the following:

• products with the same default name may contain different ingredients in different countries, so please check the international non-proprietary name (INN), and not only the name of the product (factory name)
• if the list of symptoms and illnesses that the product cures and treats is long, it should raise a doubt  over the information
• the phrase "miraculous cure," "exclusive product," "miraculous therapy" and the like should raise a doubt and serve as an warning indicator that the information may not be true
• various testimonies of "cured customers" who speak of the surprising results of a certain "drug" should lead you to suspect the information you found
• claims that the product is "scientifically" and "fully tested", without further explanation should always arouse suspicion
• information that the drug is "risk-free" or that there are "no side effects" is an indicator that you need to be careful
• when it is stated that the product is "all-natural", but without specifying the ingredients, always look for evidence of a particular natural ingredient
• be sure to consult your doctor about all medical and dietary products that you find on the Internet, regardless of the source of information

Is the information up-to-date?

• is the time when the information was last processed indicated (when ‘’up-to-date’’ was made)?
• are purpose and goals clearly stated?
• is the author’s interest present in the text? For example; Isa nonprofit organization promoting physical activity and exercise as a healthy way of life, or a company that sells fitness equipment is trying to sell equipment for exercising?
• if it is the case of a commercial or sponsored information, is it clearly indicated on the site?
• if the site contains sponsored information, is it clearly separated from other medical content?
• if the site requires some data from its visitors, is the use for the data clearly explained?
• if you need to register to use the site, is the reason for the registration clearly stated, and whether users’ data protection is ensured (privacy policy)?

Are there any notes and warnings listed?

• does the site indicate a warning that health information provided cannot substitute a doctor's visit, and that it can never replace their professional advice and instructions?

Does the website have a "friendly interface"?

• is the information clearly and simply presented?
• does the site offer the option of participation for their users, or the author’s / administrator’s contact e-mail?

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