Hälsorelaterad information via Internet : Hinder och möjligheter för individen

Increasingly people use the Internet to find health-related information. However, to obtain information of good quality there may be obstacles. The aim of this literature review was to gain knowledge about use of the Internet in developing health related knowledge. Two questions were posted: What factors can be obstacles in understanding health-related information on the Internet? What effects can health related information obtained from the Internet have for the user? In a systematic search in CINAHL and Pubmed, and a systematic review of two specific journals from the years 2000 to 2004, 14 scientific articles were found. Use of the Internet is related to the individual’s age, socio-economical factors, ethnicity, and health. Information obtained from the Internet may influence the patient-caregiver relation, as well as the individual’s sense of security and independence. There are learning needs for the individual in how to use the Internet and needs for improvement of the search-engines and websites