Dr. Internet

In the mediated society we live in today there is nothing left unthought-of. Instead of waiting in bacteria baths that are modern day medical waiting rooms we can now step into the role of doctor. More and more people are self-diagnosing illness and all with the click of a mouse.

“This is likely to be due in part to the fact that rates of broadband internet access are rising, although there is also evidence that, as people become more accustomed to internet use, they are more likely to use it for more sophisticated tasks such as accessing health-related sites.“ (Lewis 2006, 524)

With the focus today on the individual’s responsibility for their health it is no surprise that the use of the Internet has become such a recognizable helping hand. We are living in a society full of information ready to be absorbed.

Endorsed by non other than Oprah Winfrey I undertook a lengthy but intriguing survey and was offered health, fitness and dietary tips and given a “real age” of 15.5 (realage.com). With the click of a mouse I shaved 3 years off my age and was given healthy guidelines to follow to maintain my youth.

Test you "RealAge" at
www.realage.com

The Internet is revolutionizing the medical world and with 53% of adults using the Internet to retrieve health care information in 2002 (Lewis 2006, 524), by 2020 the days of visiting your local GP may be over. So embrace the gift of online knowledge and go forth and self help!

Reference List:

Lewis, T. (2006). Seeking health information on the internet: lifestyle choice or bad attack of cyberchondria? Media, Culture & Society, volume 28, issue 4: 521-539.