Over the last decade, there have been numerous developments in technology that have made information more available and accessible.
In today's digital age, the internet has become a go-to source for information, especially when it comes to health. However, with the abundance of information available, it can be challenging to discern what is reliable and accurate.
Misinformation, Disinformation, and Health Misinformation
Misinformation is defined as incorrect or misleading information that is unintentionally shared, typically due to a lack of expertise or understanding.[1]
Disinformation is referred to as deliberate misinformation, purposefully misstating facts to confuse or influence others.[2]
Health misinformation is false or misleading information about health-related topics or situations, such as incorrect or unsupported claims about conditions, treatments, or preventive measures.[3]
What Is the Cost of Health Misinformation?
Health misinformation can confuse, cause mistrust, and encourage dangerous behaviors or decisions. It can create or worsen health disorders, as well as impact the likelihood of epidemics and pandemics all over the world, endangering both individual and public health. [3]
Mistrust:
Exposure to health misinformation could lead to a reduction in trust in institutions and news organizations.
This is alarming because when individuals start losing faith in reliable sources of information, particularly concerning health, it perpetuates a cycle of misinformation as they increasingly rely on unreliable sources.
Individual health:
Health misinformation can dissuade people from seeking correct care, resulting in major health consequences and additional healthcare expenses for those affected.
For example, if someone pursues alternative remedies based on misinformation rather than receiving professional medical care, their health condition may deteriorate, causing more extensive and costly care in the future.
Public health:
Misinformation can exacerbate the spread of infectious illnesses and impair public health efforts.
For example, misinformation regarding vaccines could reduce vaccine uptake, resulting in the recurrence of vaccine-preventable diseases.
This not only affects individuals but also puts vulnerable populations at risk, including young children, immunocompromised patients, and the elderly.
How to Identify Misinformation
- Emotional language: Be cautious if the text tries to provoke a sense of fear or panic without presenting convincing and substantiated evidence.
- Scientific evidence: If there is a lack of scientific studies, research articles, or clinical trials that support the information being presented, it is not reliable or trustworthy.
- Bias: Certain information may be intentionally manipulated to serve a specific agenda.
It is crucial to be vigilant and identify any signs of bias that could compromise the objectivity of the information being presented.
Ways to Combat Misinformation
- Verify Information
Verify the information given by searching for relevant studies, research papers, or clinical trials.
If it lacks scientific evidence or is based on anecdotes, it is most certainly misinformation.
- Educate friends and family on the issue of health misinformation
When we identify that someone is spreading misinformation, we must correct them and emphasize the necessity of sharing accurate and credible sources of information.
To build a common ground and spread awareness, offer alternate explanations and sources of information.
- Avoid sharing misinformation
Cultivate skeptical thinking and the practice of checking information before accepting it as true.
It is very typical to mistakenly share misinformation, even when we intend to inform people. If you are unsure or have not validated the information, do not share it.
Choosing a healthy plant-based and vegan diet is most beneficial when it comes to:
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Higher levels of energy;
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Improved sleep;
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Aids in energy and overall happiness; -
Provides a sense of comfort and relief;
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Could prevent major diseases such as obesity and diabetes;
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Accomplish weight-loss and management; and
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Improves mental and cognitive functioning.
There are really no excuses not to try healthier habits in your everyday life. If you are a man or woman looking for specific benefits of adopting healthier habits or just want to know about the general healing properties of herbs. Please remember to comment or post any health questions, or contact us directly!
Also, feel free to share any of your favorite recipes to make and share it with the Assuaged community on our ➡️ Share A Recipe ⬅️ page!
