An arresting health headline can travel much further than the study behind it. Before sharing it, pause to ask what the research actually investigated and how the news report describes its limits.
Look for the original research
Identify the source of the claim rather than relying on the headline alone. Check whether the article provides enough detail to locate the research and understand the people or circumstances it concerns. A missing source is a reason to ask more questions.
Notice what remains uncertain
Early findings can be interesting without settling a question. A useful news story explains limitations and avoids turning a possible benefit into a guarantee. Pay attention to the difference between what the researchers measured and what the headline suggests.
Keep personal decisions separate
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health encourages readers to discuss complementary approaches with their health care providers before trying them. A news report cannot account for an individual’s medical history or care.
A place to continue reading
See the NCCIH checklist for understanding health news stories. This article is about evaluating news, not choosing a treatment.
