Health Information on the Internet

Abstract

The Internet is an increasingly important source of health-related information for consumers. One recent survey estimated that more than 60 million US residents went online in search of health information in the past year.¹ The online population is becoming more representative of the larger US population in terms of race, age, income, and educational attainment.² Among those who use the Internet, more than 70% report the health information they find influences a decision about treatment.¹