THE ROLE OF SEARCH ENGINES IN PUBLIC HEALTH EDUCATION: MISINFORMATION VS. EVIDENCE BASED MEDICINE

Abstract

Background: In the digital age, search engines have become a primary source of health information for the public. While they offer unprecedented access to medical knowledge, they also serve as a major channel through which misinformation can spread. This duality has significant implications for public health education, clinical decision-making, and policy formulation, particularly in an era where digital literacy varies widely across populations.

Objective: This narrative review aims to explore the role of search engines in public health education, with a specific focus on the balance between evidence-based medical information and misinformation. The review evaluates how search engines influence user behavior, health beliefs, and decision-making, and examines interventions designed to mitigate misinformation.

Main Discussion Points: The review synthesizes evidence on key themes including algorithmic bias, misinformation density, user trust in search results, and the effectiveness of digital tools such as AI-driven misinformation filters. It also highlights the limitations of current studies, including methodological variability, small sample sizes, and limited generalizability. Issues of public trust, health literacy, and socio-demographic disparities in access and interpretation of information are also discussed.

Conclusion: Search engines play a pivotal role in shaping public understanding of health. While they offer valuable opportunities for disseminating evidence-based information, they also present significant risks when misinformation dominates search results. Stronger collaboration between healthcare providers, policymakers, and technology platforms is essential. Future research should focus on robust, long-term studies and inclusive strategies to improve digital health literacy and protect public health.