Networking Sites for Diabetes Vary in Quality

Social networking sites are a popular way for people to connect in cyberspace. But for people with health conditions like diabetes, the quality and accuracy of some sites is lacking.

Researchers evaluated content on the top 10 diabetes social networks that came up on a Google search. They looked to see whether the information presented followed current diabetes clinical practice.

They also looked at whether the networking sites were monitored, how they responded to misinformation, how they handled privacy issues, and whether advertising was clearly labeled as such.

Study results

Half the networking sites provided good medical information. Only three sites met most of the researchers' criteria on safety, and only three sites posted information about network moderators. Eight networks had posted privacy policies, but most were difficult to read. Each site varied as far as ability to change privacy settings or share data.

Three sites had advertisements for diabetes "cures," and two didn't clearly label these as advertisements.

The researchers didn't look at general diabetes websites or bulletin board communities.

A timely look

Manny Hernandez, who has diabetes and is founder of TuDiabetes, a social networking site for people with diabetes, says the study is valuable because of its timeliness.

"We need to make sure people with chronic conditions like diabetes feel comfortable connecting with others online to become more empowered and informed patients, who can also get the support that is so important with this type of disease," Hernandez says.

The American Diabetes Association encourages people who use social networking sites to be careful of the personal information they reveal online. Be sure to read and understand the privacy policy of any social networks you participate in.

The best sites are those that have moderators with credentials in the field and that present information in line with what your own doctor tells you.

Use your common sense, experts say. Keep in mind that "even among reputable sites, there are still people who just don't know what they're talking about," says Red Maxwell, at the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

And, remember that information you find online can never replace discussions and visits with your health care provider.

Always talk with your health care provider to find out more information.