Self-evaluation of personal health and health practices have recently become readily available on the world wide web. Individuals surfing the Internet can access a multitude of assessments that provide information on their personal health. Due to the lack of regulation of content, data/information on the Internet may not be accurate; however, the consumer often does not scrutinize or question the information. In addition, the consumer may not have the skill or knowledge to accurately interpret Internet content. As a result of this dilemma, the consumer is left confused or possibly ignores the information. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the reliability of five different Internet-based health risk appraisal instruments (You First, Life Scan, Health Quotient, Real Age, and ASAP!). As a component of two university personal health courses, 300 students completed the five different Internet-based HRAs during the Winter 2000 semester. Data will be analyzed using a series of correlation coefficients. Results will assist public health educators better understand the similarities and differences among existing Internet-based HRAs.
Learning Objectives: 1. Compare similarities and differences between online HRAs 2. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of using online HRAs 3. Match existing online HRAs with needs of populations
Keywords: Health Risks, Internet
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: You First
ASAP
Wellmed (Health Quotient)
Real Age
University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point (Life Scan)
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.