How can you tell the differences between reliable and unreliable health information, products and services?

The best way to protect yourself from health scams and frauds is to know how to find reliable sources of information so that you can research individual products and services and get unbiased information.

In general, websites run by government agencies, reputable non-profit organizations, hospitals and universities are good sources of information while commercial sites that are trying to sell you their products are not reliable. Some of the best websites for finding reliable information include:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: http://www.cdc.gov/


• Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.org/


• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: http://www.orthoinfo.org/


• American Heart Association: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/


• Columbia University Go Ask Alice: http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/

In the United States, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has responsibility for monitoring health claims for products and services. It helps consumers find reliable information and products several ways:

• Consumer Videos: The FDA has produced several short informative videos you can watch about how to detect health frauds. 


• Website: You can look up individual products on the FDA website to see if they have been approved or flagged for violations.


• Regulations: The FDA tests and regulates products sold in the US to ensure safety and efficacy.