Internet Resources on Childhood Cancer

Question: Is the information I am about to find on the Internet reliable?

Most, but not all, of the information you find on the Internet is reliable. One clue is to look at the url.

".com" is a commercial site, and the sponsors of the page have a monetary investment in it. Some ".com" sites have great information; some are trying to sell you something.
".org" is sponsored by a non-profit organization.
".edu" is an educational institution; they only want to teach you something.
".gov" is a government site.

Next, look at who has written the page. The "editors" should list their qualifications. Medical doctors are of course good sources of information; non-medical doctors should state that fact and list their qualifications and aims in writing the pages.

Pay attention to who links into the page -- if you were directed to the page by a reliable source, the new page is also likely to be reliable. Reliable pages are usually updated often, indicating that the editors are interested in keeping the information as current and accurate as possible. Always understand that the medical information you read on the Internet is not to be substituted for personal consultation with a physician.

Here is a link to both another short essay and more links on source reliability:

NECCR links to source reliability issues

As a beginner, you might want to start at National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCF):

CanSearch

General Disclaimer

These pages are intended for informational purposes only and are not intended to render medical advice. The information provided on Ped Onc Resource Center should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you suspect your child has a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.

contact webmaster/ped-onc home/last updated 7/05