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1 Consumer health information on the Internet Overview of chapter In matters pertaining to health few people subscribe to the view that 'ignorance is bliss'. On learning that we, or a close friend or relative, are suffering from a particular medical condition one of the first things we do is try to find some more information about the illness. In finding answers to these questions, your doctor is always the best person to ask. Indeed, only he/she is aware of your specific circumstances and medical history. In the past couple of years, however, the development and widespread availability of the Internet have transformed access to health information. Information on any matter relating to health is now never more than a few mouse-clicks away. Some examples of the type of health information you can find on the Internet are highlighted below. |