Evaluating Health Apps

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There are thousands of mobile apps that provide health information. Some are trustworthy; others aren’t. Here are some things to keep in mind when using a health app:

  • The content of most apps isn’t written or reviewed by medical experts. It may be inaccurate and unsafe. In addition, the information you enter when using an app may not be secure.

  • There’s little research on the benefits, risks, and impact of health apps, such as the many mindfulness meditation apps that are now available.

  • It’s not always easy to know what personal information an app will access or how it will store your data.

  • Before you download an app, find out if the app store says who created it. Don’t trust the app if contact or website information for the creator isn’t available.

 

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